The forum will be hosted by the Zonta Club of Tamworth, and community members will be asked to submit questions for the candidates ahead of the event.

Zonta President Stephanie Cameron said the forum is a great chance for women and the wider community to meet the federal candidates and hear about their "policies, pledges and priorities for women".

"It is our intention that this forum be focused on women's issues so female voters can gain a greater understanding of the policies and programs each candidate endorses to advance gender equality and improve the lives of Australian women generally," Ms Cameron said.

"The forum will be professionally moderated, and we are asking attendees to submit questions for candidates in advance to ensure a robust and thorough debate.

"We know the gender pay gap in rural and regional areas in Australia is higher than the national average, and we know it is harder for women in regional Australia to access the same education, professional development opportunities and support services as our city counterparts.

"Let's not forget that domestic violence rates are unacceptably high and access to essential health services and education is limited in our outlying towns and villages."

The four candidates, including sitting Nationals' member Barnaby Joyce, Country Labor's Yvonne Langenberg, United Australia's Cindy Martin and independent Adam Blakester have all indicated they will attend.

The forum will be held at the Mercure Hotel Event Centre, adjacent Wests Leagues Club, on May 8 from 6pm.