Frequently asked questions    

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about Girl Guides.

Can my daughter attend a meeting to see if she likes it before making a commitment to join?
A girl can visit a Guide Unit for two weeks while she decides if Guiding is the right thing for her. After that time, she will need to join Girl Guides NSW & ACT to continue attending. 

My mum used to be in Brownies - are they still around?
Absolutely, but they may have a different name. All girls aged from 5 to 18 are called Guides, and individual Units can choose a descriptive name for their Unit, so they may be called Brownie Guides, or Dolphin Guides, or Adventure Guides or whatever they choose. 

I live in a remote area. Can I still be a Guide?
Sure thing. There are special Guide Units called Lones designed just for you. The girls in these Units have meetings via mail and email, with occasional get-togethers for camps and activity days.

Are there any boys in Guides?
Guiding is an all-female organisation from top to bottom. Research has shown that girls perform better and have more opportunities in an all-girl environment.

My daughter has a disability would she be able to join Guides?
Guide Units welcome girls with disabilities, depending on the Leader's capability and the nature of the disability. Our Special Needs Consultant will work with you to find the best opportunities for your daughter.

Can I  join Guides at any time of year or do I have to wait until the beginning of Term 1?
You can join whenever you like. Your membership commences from the date of joining, and the fee will fall due on that date each year.

My daughter is very interested in Guides but does not speak much English. Can she join in Guides?
Guiding would be a great place for your daughter to mix with other girls and make new friends in an informal environment. The Leaders are happy to help your daughter understand what is required while extending her English skills as well.

I would like to join as an adult member, but I'm not sure I have time to be a Unit Leader. Is there anything else I can do?
Absolutely. If you are under 30, you may like to join the Olave Program, where you will enjoy many Guide activities with other young women. There are also a wide variety of support roles available for women of all ages. We will put you in touch with the Region Leader in your area, who will help you find the best option.