Bass Coast Shire Council has received funding to create a public art installation to honour the Wonthaggi Miners Women's Auxiliary, and members Agnes Chambers and Agnes Doig.

The Auxiliary was the first women's auxiliary of a mining union. Initially formed to raise funds and offer support for miners fighting against poor working conditions and decreased pay, these women's efforts extended far beyond the strike.

After the coal dust settled, they continued their advocacy, lobbying for essential women's amenities, educating local women on mining and political issues, and securing much-needed services like a maternity wing at the Miners' Hospital, a restroom for mothers, a kindergarten, and a public library.

The artwork, titled "Pennies in the Petties", will be located at the entrance of the Union Theatre .

The grant is one of six announced on International Women's Day by the State Government.

Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale thanked everyone who voted for the submission, and Bass Coast Shire Council for their vision in driving the project.

"We have a story to tell in Wonthaggi - and celebrating these women and their movement accentuates it even more," Ms Crugnale said.

To read the stories behind the art and to find out more about the Victorian Women's Public Art Program, visit: www.vic.gov.au/victorian-womens-public-art-program