International Women's Day
International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated around the world on 8 March to acknowledge the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women – while also marking a call to action for accelerating gender equality.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2026 is #BalanceTheScales, with the campaign theme emphasising the need for every woman and girl to be safe, heard, and free to shape her own future.
International Women's Day in Hobsons Bay 2026
Hobsons Bay is hosting two events - the first celebrating those in Hobsons Bay making efforts to 'balance the scales' for gender equality; and another, for the business community in partnership with Maribyrnong City Council.
'Balance the Scales' community event
We invite community members to join us for a celebration of International Women’s Day and to explore the UN Women theme: ‘Balance the Scales’ which highlights the urgent need to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman and girl.
This will be a 'world cafe' style event featuring inspiring local women leading discussions on gender equality and justice-themed topic areas. The event also includes an afternoon tea with child-friendly activities.
Guest speakers
Jade Hurst, Altona Junior Vikings Football Club
Jade is an active volunteer and currently serves as the registrar for the Altona Junior Vikings Football Club. A mother of three, she is dedicated to sharing her skills and time to improve the local football club where her two boys play. Her day job involves managing a research program at the Transport Accident Commission.
Jade is a respected leader and the sort of person who makes the complicated simple and gets things done. This is Jade’s fourth year on the committee. As the grants officer (2023-25), she raised about $70,000 and project-managed facility improvement projects such as an electronic scoreboard and extra seating for the female’s home-ground oval.
Jade will be speaking about balancing the scales by elevating participation and achievement of girls in sport.
Lauren Avery, commUnity+ Legal
Lauren manages the familylaw team at commUnity+ Legal, a community legal centre providing free legal advice and assistance to people who live, work or study in Melbourne’s northwestern suburbs. As part of commUnity+, a broader multidisciplinary organisation offering adult education, child contact services and a neighbourhood house, commUnity+ Legal has a particular focus on providing holistic support to clients across a broad range of legal areas. The family law team provides advice and ongoing casework to clients about divorce, property settlements, parenting disputes and family violence matters.
Lauren will be speaking about balancing the scales and access to the justice system.
Rebecca Cook, Housing for the Aged Action Group
Rebecca is a social worker and artist, who enjoys working creatively. As a community engagement worker at Housing for the Aged Action Group (HAAG), Rebecca helps older people understand their housing options and access services. She is passionate about social justice issues and supports older women to share their experiences of homelessness, ageism and gender inequality to advocate for systemic change.
Rebecca will be speaking about balancing the scales of housing inequality for older women.
Event details
Tuesday 3 March 2026, 1pm - 2.30pm
Hobsons Bay Civic Centre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona
Doors open at 12:45pm for a 1pm start
Free
**Please note that due to popular demand, registrations are now closed as this event is at capacity
This event is proudly brought to you by Hobsons Bay City Council. Please call 9932 1001 or email commdev@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au for more details.
2026 Business Networking - International Women's Day event
Hobsons Bay City Council and Maribyrnong City Council are coming together again to put on an International Women’s Day Business Luncheon, celebrating women in business, leadership and community.
Join us for a relaxed and inspiring afternoon hosted by our MC the always-engaging Maree Sortino from The Social Secret and featuring keynote speaker Monique Milenkovic, founder of The Cupcake Queens. Monique will share her journey of growing a self-funded, female-led business from one local shop into a well-known national brand, with practical insights for small business owners.
The event includes an Italian inspired feast, desserts served from cannoli and gelati carts and of course....cupcakes!
Event details
Thursday 5 March 2026, 11.30am - 2pm
Williamstown Italian Social Club
Doors open at 11.30am for a 12pm start
Tickets are $40
This event is for local business owners and staff, entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Get your tickets here