This year’s International Women’s Day (8 March) takes place under the official theme ‘Balance the Scales’, which highlights the urgent need to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman a girl.
According to UN Women Australia, one in three women worldwide will experience physical or sexual violence in their lives. Sadly, most will never seek formal help or justice. This is further exemplified by low conviction rates of sexual assault cases in Australia. In NSW, that figure is just 11%.
This year’s theme is a call to not only pause and reflect but take responsibility for the future we are collectively shaping and ensure actions reflect spoken promises. The future shouldn’t be one where current gaps between legal protections and real outcomes for survivors exist.
As UN Women Australia CEO, Simone Clark, states, “In 2026, unjust laws, policies, and ingrained barriers still stand in the way of fair and inclusive communities.”
“This International Women’s Day, we are calling on Australians to join a movement for real action – to transform our justice systems, amplify marginalised voices, and ensure equality is not the exception, but the rule,” she says.
Everyone has a role to play in achieving the transformation of current systems into ones that are survivor-centred and responsive to the needs of every woman and girl.
“True progress takes more than words,” Ms Clarke says.
“Together we have the power to dismantle discriminatory systems, unlock transformation, and deliver justice, safety, and dignity for all women and girls.”
As Dr Alison Young, Chair of the Australian Chiropractors Association’s Women in Chiropractic Committee, explains, “balancing the scales is not about taking something away from one group to give to another.”
“It is about ensuring that opportunity, recognition, safety, and leadership pathways are accessible to all, regardless of gender, life stage, or circumstances.”
When society functions in balance, everyone benefits. This point is crucial to remember this International Women’s Day.
Get Involved This International Women’s Day
On Wednesday, 4 March, UN Women Australia will host its signature International Women’s Day events in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, and online.
As UN Women Australia’s largest annual fundraising initiative, these events support vital global programs and local advocacy, bringing together thought leaders, change-makers, and advocates dedicated to advancing gender equality.
For more information, visit: https://www.iwd.net.au.
