08/03/2026
🌸 International Women’s Day 2026 🌸
As we recognise International Women’s Day our Chief Operating Officer wanted to share a few words:
International Women’s Day is both a celebration of the achievements of women and a call to action for greater gender equality. While significant progress has been made over recent decades, serious barriers to justice and safety remain.
Globally, one in three women will experience physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, and many will never seek formal support or justice. In Australia, conviction rates for sexual assault remain persistently low, highlighting the gap between legal protections and real outcomes for survivors.
This year’s theme, Balance the Scales, speaks strongly to me. To me, it’s about keeping things fair and making sure women have real opportunities, real support and real influence in the workplace and in our communities. It reminds us that equality requires more than intention, it requires systemic change and a commitment to building environments that are inclusive, responsive and safe for every woman and girl.
For First Nations women, the challenges are particularly complex. Disproportionate levels of family violence, over representation in the justice system, and limited access to culturally safe legal support continue to create barriers. First Nations women are 34 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence than non-Indigenous women. These statistics reinforce the urgent need for community-led, self-determined solutions that centre First Nations leadership and lived experience.
As a workforce made up of more than 70% women, we are uniquely positioned to lead by example. Every day, I see strength, resilience, intelligence and compassion demonstrated across our teams. I see women supporting families, strengthening communities, leading change and building futures.
As a First Nations organisation, we also carry the strength and wisdom of the women who came before us, the matriarchs, leaders, carers and knowledge holders who have sustained culture, community and Country for generations. Their legacy lives on in the work we do and in the way we support one another.
International Women’s Day encourages us to reflect on how we contribute to safer, stronger and more equitable communities. Meaningful progress requires listening, partnership and a commitment to dismantling barriers so that all women and girls can live with safety, dignity and opportunity. True progress takes more than words, it takes collective action.
To all the strong, capable and inspiring women across our organisation, thank you.
Today is a reminder to recognise your contribution and to keep pushing for workplaces and communities that are fair, respectful and inclusive.
Happy International Women’s Day. 💜
- Katie Peatey, Chief Operating Officer
