International Women’s Day 2026 – Balancing the scales: every story matters

To mark International Women’s Day 8 March, 2026, IPAA Victoria will celebrate the contributions by women in the public purpose sector and championing the UN Women Australia 2026 theme: ‘Balancing the scales.’ 

More than thirty years ago, the world embraced a bold vision for gender equality through the United Nations’ Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Since then, women have broken barriers, reshaped policies, and sparked global movements. Yet, despite these advancements, the promises made remain unfulfilled for millions of women worldwide. We have not achieved the progress envisioned. Now is the time to transform promises into action and make real progress.

As one of the most celebrated events in the public purpose sector, this year’s eminent speakers, who are leaders and innovators in their respective fields, will reflect on key achievements and explore the path ahead. This year’s IPAA Victoria theme, ‘Balancing the scales: every story matters’, will shine a spotlight on the urgent need to create fair, inclusive, and accessible justice systems for all women and girls. Despite decades of progress, many still face entrenched barriers to justice.

We are excited to announce our keynote speaker Kate Fitz-Gibbon. Kate is Professor (Practice) at Monash Business School and Director of the Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre. As the Chair of Respect Victoria, she is a leading voice on gender-based violence and legal reform, bringing deep expertise to this year’s theme.

Kate will be joined by our event host, three-time Walkley Award winner, Virginia Trioli. Virginia is the presenter of ‘Creative Types’ on ABC TV and iView and is one of Australia’s best-known journalists, with a formidable reputation as a television anchor, radio presenter, writer and commentator.

More speakers will be announced in early 2026.

Why attend?

• Celebrate the achievements of women leading public purpose and justice initiatives.
• Connect with leaders and peers across the public sector.
• Be inspired by keynote speakers and storytelling sessions focused on justice, equity, and representation.

Key details: 

• Date: Thursday, 5 March 2026
• Time: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm (formalities commence at 6:30 pm)
• Venue: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Wharf

Tickets:

• First release (until 2 Feb): Members $340 +GST / table of 10 $3,400 +GST; Non-members $440 +GST / table $4,400 +GST
• Second release (until 19 Feb or sold out): Members $390 +GST / table of 10 $3,900 +GST; Non-members $440 +GST / table $4,400 +GST

Not sure if you’re a member? Check our organisation members. 

Join us for an evening of celebration, inspiration, and collective action. International Women’s Day is more than a celebration, it’s a catalyst for change. By attending, you’ll help amplify voices that matter and contribute to building a fairer, more inclusive future.

Thank you to our event partners, Victorian Public Sector Commission, Future Leadership and Maddocks, for their support in delivering this important event.