Balance the scales this IWD

The theme for this year's International Women's Day is Balance the Scale.
That means, every woman and girl - regardless of background or identity - should be safe, heard, and free to shape their own lives.

Unfortunately even in 2026, too many across Australia and the world are still denied that fair go. Discriminatory laws, policies, and practices persist. Gender-based violence remains widespread, and structural barriers block too many from seeking or receiving justice.

According to the UN's IWD statement, these barriers aren't inevitable and just as they have been built, they can be dismantled.

"Equality is not about advantage for some; it's about dignity, safety, and fairness for all," it says.

"When women and girls stand equal, families are stronger, workplaces are fairer, communities thrive, and society becomes safer for everyone."

Last year, authorities estimate 43 women were killed due to intimate partner violence in Australia. This follows on from 2024, which is on record as being the worst ever recorded for women killed due to intimate partner violence.

Here in Bass Coast, we have a level of family violence incidents well above the state average, and women are represented at more than three times the rate of men as the affected family members.

This International Women's Day the call is for us all to Balance the Scale together.
Come together to celebrate what has been achieved and look at ways to continue creating a better, fairer and safer world for women.

Celebrate International Women's Day in Bass Coast

Bass Coast Shire Council's IWD Lunch

12pm - 3pm. Friday, March 6

Phillip Island Winery, 414 Berrys Beach Road, Ventnor.

Guest speaker: Hannah Diviney (writer, actor, disability advocate) $65

Tickets: international-womens-day-2026.eventbrite.com.au

IWD at the Gurdies

3pm - 6pm The Gurdies Winery,

Guest speakers: Clare Le Serve, Colleen Williams and Helen Zervopoulos.

$35 (includes light supper)

Tickets: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1526190

Penny Lane - IWD Afternoon Tea

4pm - 6pm. Sunday, March 8

Champagne on arrival.

Penny Lane Café, 22 Thompson Avenue, Cowes. $49pp

Tickets: www.trybooking.com/DJUMA