How to join Women’s Day celebrations
It’s a time to reflect on the progress made by women and girls worldwide and to commit to supporting the work that still needs to be done.
All Australians are being invited to celebrate International Women’s Day, which falls annually on 8 March.
The highlight of this year’s activities will be a series of speaking events across the country on Friday, 7 March.
You can find details of the speakers, who range from former Irish president Mary Robinson and Governor-General Sam Mostyn to comedian Celeste Barber, here.
Meanwhile, the Gather for Good initiative is encouraging a more grassroots approach. Australians are being asked to host a gathering – say, a casual picnic, yoga in the park, a spa day, or board games night – “to celebrate women and girls around the world in a way that’s simple and meaningful”.
The organisers say, “Every gathering is an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for a brighter future. By hosting your own gathering and asking your fellow gatherers to make a small donation to take part, you can help set change in motion.”
If you choose to make a donation, it will be spent to support United Nations Women’s programs. Details are here.
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of women's achievements and a call to action for gender equality.
With roots dating back to the early 1900s, IWD has grown into a movement that unites individuals, communities, and organisations in striving for a more equitable world.
Each year, IWD is marked by a theme that highlights pressing issues related to gender equality. This year, the official theme is “Accelerate Action”, taking its cue from World Economic Forum research revealing that, at the current rate, it will take until 2158 – roughly five generations from now – to reach full gender parity.
Past themes have emphasised the importance of inclusivity, breaking biases, and empowering women in leadership.
While IWD is a time to celebrate progress, it also serves as a reminder of the work that remains. In Australia, women still face barriers in areas such as pay equity, political representation, and leadership roles.
Reports show that women continue to experience workplace discrimination and gender-based violence, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and systemic change.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, it is important to recognise the achievements of women while committing to meaningful action through policy reforms, community engagement, or personal advocacy.
This year’s celebrations serve as both a reflection of progress and a call to push forward for a fairer and more inclusive future for all.
