International Women's Day 2026

Every 8 March, the world celebrates women – their courage, intelligence and curiosity –and the countless ways they enrich our lives. But International Women’s Day is more than a celebration. It’s a reminder that millions of women and girls worldwide still face daily challenges in the fight for equality. In developing countries, barriers to education, healthcare and opportunity remain high, making the push for women’s rights more urgent than ever.

How Do We Make a Difference This International Women’s Day?

ChildFund Australia works to address barriers to gender equality by developing and investing in the programs that:

• Get girls in school and help them stay there Education is the foundation of gender equality. When girls can access quality schooling, they break free from cycles of poverty and discrimination and grow into confident women capable of pursuing their dreams and transforming their communities.
• Create safe spaces for girls Every girl deserves to feel safe at home, at school and in her community. Gender-based violence affects girls and women worldwide. ChildFund Australia runs programs that prevent violence and create safe spaces where girls can thrive free from harm and exploitation.
• Champion girls’ leadership Supporting girls to lead transforms communities. Programs like Youth for Youth help young women build confidence, find their voice and step up as leaders – creating a more equal world for everyone.
• Support mothers and maternal health Maternal and female health is still under-researched, especially in remote or underserved communities. No mother should face pregnancy alone or without proper care. ChildFund Australia provides vital support where medical assistance is limited, helping mothers and families stay healthy.

Together, these programs form a collective effort to challenge the systems and structures that stand in the way of women’s health, wellbeing and success

What is International Women's Day?

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women, their achievements, resilience and impact. But it is also a reminder that the fight for gender equality isn’t over. Women around the world still face barriers to their rights, health, safety and opportunities every single day.

The first International Women’s Day began in the early 1900s in Europe and was officially recognized by the UN in 1975. Over the past century, progress has been made, but for women in underserved communities, inequality remains a daily challenge.

Thirty years ago, world leaders promised real change through the Beijing Platform for Action. While some things have improved, millions of women are still denied basic rights and opportunities.

That is why International Women’s Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is a moment to celebrate progress, reflect on the work still to be done and ask what we can do to make a difference for women and girls worldwide.

When is International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day is held annually on 8 March.

What is the International Women's Day 2026 theme?

For International Women’s Day 2026, Australia’s official theme is Balance the Scales, highlighting the urgent need for fairness, justice and equality for all women and girls. At the same time, the global campaign theme Give to Gain celebrates the transformative power of community, showing how investing in women and girls – through care, knowledge, resources or supporting organisations like ChildFund Australia – can create change that reaches far beyond individual lives.

Together, these themes remind us that gender equality requires both systemic change and collective action. Supporting girls and young women in vulnerable communities, including those affected by conflict or crises, gives them the chance to pursue their dreams and become the women they aspire to be. When we come together, every act of support multiplies, helping women and girls realise their potential and build a brighter future at home and around the world.

How to celebrate International Women's Day in Australia?

The same as every day! For International Women’s Day 2026, we continue our work on the ground, alongside local organisation partners and community leaders, supporting maternal and child health in communities where women face limited access to healthcare. Across the Asia Pacific, we raise the voices of incredible women and girls, equipping them with the skills, confidence and opportunities they need to learn, grow and pursue the futures they aspire to.

The following stories highlight the impact of this work, showing how collective action and support bring lasting change to communities and empower women and girls to shape their futures.

Supporting women on the ground

Josephine has been a Village Health Assistant in Papua New Guinea for over 12 years. She runs regular sessions for pregnant women in her village, teaching them how to recognise the early signs of labour and when to seek help. When the call comes, she is instantly ready to take a mother-to-be to the nearest medical centre, no matter the hour, even if it means crossing a river by canoe in the dead of night.

Since 2011, ChildFund Australia has partnered with local health authorities in Papua New Guinea to train community volunteers like Josephine, bringing essential health services to rural and remote villages that would otherwise have none. For expectant mothers, this support can be the difference between life and death.

Taking a stand against early marriage

In Kenya, ChildFund Australia works to prevent gender-based violence and early marriage. Through Child Rights Clubs, children learn about safety, their rights and how to report abuse. Schools have become safe spaces where girls can speak up and trusted adults step in to protect their right to education and wellbeing.

Behind every program is a chain of people choosing to give, from community members to ChildFund staff, volunteers and supporters who share their time, knowledge and care. In return, women and children gain safety, access to education and the tools to transform their communities.

How to Celebrate International Women’s Day in Australia

Wondering how to mark International Women’s Day in 2026 and support gender equality in your community? Here are some simple ways to get involved:

• Host an International Women’s Day breakfast Gather people at school, in the office, or in your community over breakfast or morning tea to talk about how we can all take action for women and girls. Even a small donation can support ChildFund Australia’s current appeal or other organisations advancing gender equality
• Share stories about women who inspire Create a platform to celebrate women who inspire – family members, educators, mentors, or public figures – and the barriers they’ve overcome to make progress in gender equality.
• Send “Give to Gain” gratitude cards Write a note to the women who shape your life and community (think all of all the amazing women in your every day life... the educators, carers, colleagues, volunteers and loved ones). Acknowledge not only what they do but the challenges they’ve faced and the change they’ve helped create.
• Attend or host an International Women’s Day event Across Australia, events include panel talks, networking breakfasts, community marches, cultural performances, and workshops. Check local councils, universities, or organisations to find an event near you and take part in the movement for a fairer, more inclusive world.
• Create a Facebook fundraiser Support ChildFund Australia by starting a fundraiser on Facebook. Invite friends and family to contribute and help young women and girls in developing countries access education, healthcare, and opportunities to follow their goals.
• Plan International Women’s Day activities at work Bring your team together for workshops, panel discussions, or interactive activities celebrating women in the workplace. You can even combine it with a fundraiser, donating proceeds to ChildFund Australia’s appeal, making your celebration meaningful and impactful.
• Use the International Women’s Day 2026 hashtags In Australia, the official theme is Balance the Scales with hashtags #IWD2026 and #BalanceTheScales. Globally, many also use #GiveToGain to highlight the power of community and support for women and girls worldwide. Using both sets of hashtags lets your posts reach local and international audiences.
• Donate to maternal and child health programs This International Women’s Day, your support can make a real difference for women and children in developing countries. You can make a general donation to help fund vital maternal and child health services, or choose a meaningful gift from ChildFund Australia’s Gifts for Good range, such as the Newborn Essential Kit. Every contribution helps women access the care and resources they need, putting the Give to Gain principle into action and creating lasting impact in communities.

Building the women of tomorrow starts with girls today

International Women’s Day reminds us that the women of tomorrow start with the girls of today. By supporting strong networks, celebrating role models, nurturing aspirations, and breaking down barriers, we can help girls grow into the confident, capable women the world needs. Every action – big or small – helps create opportunities, lifts communities, and puts Give to Gain into practice for lasting change.