International Women’s Day is observed globally every year on March 8 to celebrate women’s achievements in social, economic, cultural and political life and to highlight ongoing efforts toward gender equality.
In Australia, International Women’s Day is coordinated nationally by UN Women Australia (iwd.net.au), supporting events that raise funds for organisations advancing gender equality and opportunities for women and girls.
The roots of IWD stretch back over a century, when early advocates in the early 1900s pressed for better working conditions, voting rights and greater inclusion for women.
Over time, what began as grassroots activism has grown into an international observance marked by communities, organisations and governments worldwide.
International Women’s Day continues to encourage individuals and groups to support women in meaningful ways — through sharing knowledge, lifting each other up, championing women-owned businesses, mentoring, and fundraising for causes that help women thrive. The idea is that generosity and support help build more equitable, resilient communities.
This year’s national theme, “Balance the Scales”, highlights the ongoing barriers many women and girls face in accessing justice. From gender-based violence and low conviction rates to the disproportionate impact on First Nations women and those from culturally diverse communities, equality under the law remains uneven. The 2026 focus calls for systems that are accessible, survivor-centred and responsive to the needs of every woman and girl.
Celebrate International Women’s Day In Lane Cove
In Lane Cove, you can mark IWD with a range of events and activities combining celebration, cultural expression and community engagement. Here’s what’s on.
Mixed media on Canvas (Oil, acrylic, Mica in Alkyd Resin base) 91 x 91 cm. 2021-2024
Women of Strength and Honour: Being, Belonging and Becoming
Curated by Miriam Cabello Women of Strength and Honour: Being, Belonging and Becoming explores strength and connection across cultures and showcases work by Indigenous women artists from Australia, Latin America, India, Fiji and Peru. Through painting, ceramics, sculpture and sound, the works reflect on strength as lived experience and on belonging as something shaped and carried across generations.
The exhibition runs from Wednesday, 25 February to Saturday, 21 March 2026.
Visit Tuesday to Friday 10 am – 4.30 pm or Saturdays 10 am – 2.30 pm.
Official Opening Event
When: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: Gallery Lane Cove + Creative Studios
How: Free. Register here.
Girl Power Concert At The Canopy
A high-energy evening celebrating iconic women in music from the 90s and 00s. Pack a picnic or grab some takeaway from local businesses and enjoy the show.
When: Saturday 7 March 2026
Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Where: The Canopy
How: Ticket link here.
The Ella Elias Property Group is proud to partner with Wow & Co. for a special International Women’s Day celebration at the Terrace at the Hunters Hill Hotel.
Are you ready for an inspiring afternoon dedicated to connection, community and belonging? This event honours women who live, work or feel connected to Woolwich, Hunters Hill and surrounding areas.
Inclusive and community-focused, all women are warmly welcome.
Enjoy drinks, nibbles, engaging activities, lucky door prizes and a few special surprises along the way!
When: Saturday 7th March
Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: Hunters Hill Hotel
How: Book here
Small Business Networking Breakfast
A breakfast event for local entrepreneurs. Connect with business owners and hear from guest speaker Leanne Johnstone on topics like financial wellbeing and business resilience.
Date: Wednesday 11th March 2026
Time: 7.30 am – 9.30 am
Where: Pottery Lane Performance Space Lane Cove
How: Free. Registration essential.
In Conversation with Magistrate Debrah Maher
Hear from Magistrate Debrah Maher as she discusses her experiences and perspectives on women’s leadership, justice and advocacy and a vision for a gender equal world.
Date: Thursday, 12 March 2026
Time: 6 pm – 8 pm
Where: Lane Cove Library, Longueville Road
How: Free. More details and booking link here. Light refreshments included.
Dyinalyung Yana Muru: Women’s Walk
Join a cultural walk through bushland with storytelling. A guided walk led by a First Nations guide, focusing on women’s connection to land, culture and community.
When: Sunday, 8 March 2026 (IWD)
Time: 9.30 am – 11 am
Where: Tambourine Bay Reserve, Riverview
How: Bookings essential
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