|
The
Chung Wah Association was formed in 1909 in response to
community needs to care for the Chinese living in W.A.
The location of the Association’s headquarters in James
Street Northbridge was influenced by the presence of the
produce markets and many other Chinese businesses and
residences operating in William and Lake Streets.
It is
significant to note that the hall was the first of its
type built in Australia, prior to the much large Chinese
communities in Victoria and New South Wales doing so in
1910. Construction costs of £2,000 was raised through
donations by the Chinese community throughout the state.
It was a feat considering the majority of the donations
came from men who were not able to remain here, however
they felt compelled to do so for the greater good of the
small community.
The
major objects of the association were and still are:
(a)
to be an association of a general character for
persons of Chinese descent living in Australia without
regard to social standing, occupation, political or
religious beliefs;
(b)
to look after the welfare and interests of its
Members and the Chinese community and other Asian
communities in Western Australia;
Currently the Association has over 2,000 members making
it the largest Chinese community organization in WA. It
is also the longest running ethnic group in WA and will
celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2009.
| 
