International Women's Day

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on 8 March.

Led in Australia by UN Women, IWD spotlights global issues that perpetuate gender inequality and highlights actions we can all take on the path to a gender equal world.

Gender Equity is everyone’s business

Inner West is working towards real change on Gender Equity through our Inner West Council Gender Equity Strategy 2021 – 2025.

March Forward: For ALL Women and Girls

The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is 'March Forward: For ALL Women and Girls'. This year's theme calls for action that can unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all and a feminist future where no one is left behind.

Central to this vision is empowering the next generation – youth, particularly young women and adolescent girls – as catalysts for lasting change. Together, we can be the generation to close the gap to achieve gender equality.

Inner West works to empower women and accelerate progress towards gender equity every day of the year - not just on International Women’s Day. For more information see Gender equity - Inner West Council.

We are currently finalising our program for IWD 2025. Check back soon.

View last year's program below.

College of black photos of women and children with a purple and pink graphic of cityscape superimposed over the top

When Women Design Cities: Celebrating International Women's Day 2024

On March 7 2024, Inner West Council commenced our International Women’s Day celebrations with a night of music, entertainment and conversation at Marrickville Town Hall.

How should play, joy and accessibility be factored into urban planning? What would our cities look like if the needs of children, women and gender diverse people were prioritised in their design? What happens when women design the places we live?

Our panel, facilitated by journalist and broadcaster Farz Edraki, discussed gender and inclusivity in our cities, showcasing the unique, diverse perspectives that women bring to designing and enlivening urban spaces.

With:

Karen Bevan, CEO of Full Stop Australia
Shannon Foster, D’harawal Saltwater Knowledge Keeper, educator, artist and founder of bangawarra
Prof Nicole Gurran, Chair of Urbanism at the University of Sydney
Natalia Krysiak, architect and founder of Cities for Play
Dr Zahra Nasreen, Postdoctoral Housing Researcher focused on shared housing, migrants housing and housing informality

The night also featured live music by Miriam Lieberman, followed by comedian and writer Katie Little's take on women in cities.

Drinks and refreshments provided by Two Good Co.

A recording of the panel discussion is available on YouTube

Read about the UN's International Women's Day 2024: Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress.

Please direct any questions to Karenna Alexander via community@innerwest.nsw.gov.au

Colourful collage of archival photos of women

The Thread Between Us art exhibition

Leichhardt Women’s Community Health Centre is celebrating 50 years of improving women’s health and women’s lives at a special exhibition coinciding with International Women's Day.

The Thread between Us art exhibition runs 1 to 26 March 2024 at Leichhardt Library. Free entry anytime during library hours. Opening night Tuesday 6 March 5:30pm to 7pm.

Learn more

Wonder Women

Inner West Libraries has curated a collection of books in celebration of International Women's Day.

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International Women's Day