International Women’s Day 2023
International Women’s Day (IWD) serves as powerful platform for advocacy and celebration, as well as one of UN Women Australia’s most significant fundraising opportunities each year. Through various events, partnerships, and our IWD campaign, we mobilise resources to drive sustainable change and a more inclusive future for all.
In 2023, the theme Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future, highlighted the role that bold, transformative ideas, inclusive technologies, and accessible education can play in combatting discrimination and the marginalisation of women globally.
4,657
people attended our IWD events live across the country
3,475
people tuned in to our IWD virtual event
45,461
joined the conversation on social media
$526,000
was raised to support women and girls around the globe when they need it most
Parliamentary Breakfast
UN Women Australia marked the start of our International Women’s Day celebrations with the annual Parliamentary Breakfast at Parliament House, co-hosted by Prime Minister Hon Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Hon Peter Dutton MP. This event united national leaders and decision-makers to celebrate progress and reinforce the commitment needed to achieve gender equality and SDG 5.
Prime Minister Albanese, Mr Dutton, and Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs, each delivered speeches underscoring the enduring importance of International Women’s Day and the work of UN Women. Simone Clarke, expressed gratitude for the Australian Government’s enduring support and emphasised the critical role of consistent funding in advancing gender equality, highlighting its connection to broader peace and prosperity goals both regionally and globally.
For more photos from our IWD 2023 celebrations click here.
International Women's Day Events
On Friday 3 March 2023, thousands across Australia gathered to celebrate ahead of International Women’s Day. Simultaneous live events were held in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, and Perth, along with a virtual audience, provided attendees the opportunity to hear from inspiring women technologists, innovators, entrepreneurs, and gender equality activists. Among the speakers were Dr Catherine Ball, Sarah Moran, Grace Forrest, Jackie Lee-Joe, Dr Janin Bredehoeft, and the Hon. Katy Gallagher.
The events featured an insightful interview with Tarana Burke, the visionary founder of the ‘me too.’ movement, conducted by Australian journalist and activist Tracey Spicer AM. Additionally, Alyssa Milano, fearless activist, Hollywood actor and producer, delivered a personal address introducing this powerful segment.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who joined us to celebrate IWD 2023, whether in person or virtually. Thanks to your support, we raised $526,000 for women and girls worldwide, ensuring they have access to crucial support services, educational opportunities and innovations that are vital to creating the sustainable and equal future we all strive for.
International Women's Day of Giving
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to our International Women’s Day of Giving. Together, we successfully raised $103,720! These much-needed funds will go a long way towards ensuring UN Women can continue their work in over 100 countries, running vital programs that provide women and girls access to technology, training programs and safe spaces, empowering them to obtain an education, become leaders in their community and build a brighter, more equal future for us all.
A special acknowledgement goes to the Adelaide International Women’s Day Breakfast and the Women Leaders Institute, who generously matched all donations made. Their support has made a significant difference in advancing the cause of gender equality.
Adelaide International Women's Day Breakfast
The Adelaide International Women’s Day Breakfast, a longstanding tradition hosted by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, marked its 31st year as one of Australia’s largest IWD events. With tickets sold out well in advance and Ambassador Caroline Kennedy as the special guest, attendees gathered in support of UN Women’s global initiatives. Their participation not only celebrated progress but also contributed $130,000 to funding vital work for gender equality worldwide. Special thanks go to Meredith Boyle and the Adelaide IWD Committee, chaired by Ann Morgan, for their instrumental role in organising this impactful event.
Watch Ambassador Caroline Kennedy’s address here.