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From mandala-making and morning teas to a High Tea at Windsor, the Hawkesbury will come together from 2 March to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, a global day recognising the achievements of women and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
This year’s theme, Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls., calls on communities to reflect not only on how far women have come, but on the urgent work still ahead.
A Brief History of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day has its roots in the early 20th century labour and suffrage movements. First observed in 1911 across parts of Europe, the day grew out of campaigns for women’s voting rights, fair pay and safer working conditions.
In Australia, women were among the first in the world to gain the right to vote and stand for federal parliament in 1902. Over more than a century, Australian women have made profound contributions across politics, science, business, sport, the arts and community life.
Yet IWD remains as relevant as ever.
The Position of Women in Australia Today
Australian women today are more highly educated than any previous generation and participate in the workforce in record numbers. Women lead major corporations, head research institutions and serve in parliament at historically high levels.
However, inequality persists. Women continue to experience a gender pay gap, are over-represented in lower-paid and insecure work, and carry a disproportionate share of unpaid caring responsibilities. Career progression can still be hindered by structural barriers, discrimination and bias.
The most significant threat to the lives, wellbeing and careers of Australian women remains gender-based violence, particularly domestic and family violence. It is a crisis that affects women across all ages, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. Beyond the tragic loss of life, domestic violence disrupts employment, financial security, mental health and long-term opportunity for countless women and children.
International Women’s Day provides an opportunity not only to celebrate achievements but to confront these realities and recommit to meaningful change.
A Week of Celebration in the Hawkesbury
Locally, a series of free community events will run from Monday 2 March through to International Women’s Day on Sunday 8 March, offering opportunities for connection, reflection and celebration.
“International Women’s Day is a time to stop a reflect and value the important place of all women and girls in society, and to continue to build a shared consciousness that any form of violence or abuse towards women and children is never ok.” Maria Losurdo, manager, The Women’s Cottage.
Monday 2 March (4pm–6pm)
The Women’s Cottage will host a Mandala Afternoon Tea at Chutney’s Café, Richmond Mall. Women and girls, along with their loved ones, are invited to create their own mandalas celebrating shared strength, brilliance and beauty. Tea, coffee and cake will be provided, with art supplies included. Bookings are essential.
Tuesday 3 March (1pm–2.30pm)
Peppercorn Community Culture will hold an Afternoon Tea at the South Windsor Family Centre, welcoming local parents with children aged 0–5. The session includes opportunities to relax and connect, a wellbeing workshop and self-care lucky door prizes. Afternoon tea and child minding are provided.
Wednesday 4 March (10am–12pm)
North Richmond Community Centre will host a welcoming Morning Tea at 33 William Street, North Richmond. Open to everyone, the event promises good company and even belly dancing with no bookings required.
Thursday 5 March (10am–12pm)
Richmond Community Services Inc will present a Coffee, Cake & Connection Café at 20 West Market Street, Richmond. Featuring live music, guest speakers, crafts and refreshments, the gathering is an opportunity for local women to connect and celebrate together.
Sunday 8 March (12pm–3pm)
On International Women’s Day itself, Link Wentworth DFV Services Ngarrunga and Nurreen will host a High Tea at Crowne Plaza, Windsor. The event will include a guest speaker and is open to all, including children. Bookings are essential.
All events are free, though many require bookings due to limited spaces.
Celebrating and Acting
International Women’s Day in the Hawkesbury will be both celebratory and reflective, honouring the strength and achievements of women and girls while recognising the work still required to ensure safety, equity and opportunity for all.
As this year’s theme urges, progress depends not only on rights and justice, but on action.
Residents are encouraged to attend one or more of the local events and be part of a community-wide commitment to celebrating and supporting all women and girls.
For bookings please visit the links below:
Richmond Community Services Inc – Coffee, Cake & Connection Café Link:
https://socialplanet.com.au/at/richmond-community-services-inc/collection/356
International Women’s Day High Tea
