Every year on 8 March, families around the world celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) — a day that shines a light on women’s achievements, recognises the people who’ve helped shape our communities, and inspires the next generation of girls (and boys) to believe in fairness, respect and opportunity for everyone.
It’s uplifting, it’s meaningful, and it’s a lovely moment to pause and appreciate the women in our lives — from mums and grandmothers to teachers, carers, coaches, business owners and community leaders.
What is International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day is a global celebration that honours women’s contributions across every part of life — family, work, sport, science, art, community and culture. It also reminds us to keep building a world where women and girls can thrive.
Each year, the United Nations and UN Women recognise IWD with a theme. For International Women’s Day 2026, UN Women’s theme is “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.” (lac.unwomen.org)
In Australia, UN Women Australia has announced the national theme “Balance the Scales”, focusing on fairness and access to justice. (unwomen.org.au)
How International Women’s Day began (and why that’s inspiring)
International Women’s Day has a proud history rooted in people coming together to create positive change.
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1909: One of the earliest Women’s Day events was held in New York City, calling for better rights and conditions for women.
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1910: Activist Clara Zetkin proposed an annual international day to celebrate women and support equal rights.
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1911: Huge gatherings took place across Europe, with women standing together for the right to vote and fair treatment at work.
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1977: The United Nations encouraged countries to formally recognise a day that celebrates women’s rights and international peace.
What’s beautiful about this history is that it shows what happens when people unite with hope, courage and determination — progress follows.
Why International Women’s Day is worth celebrating
International Women’s Day is a chance to:
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celebrate the women who make our lives better every day
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recognise the achievements of women locally and globally
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inspire children with stories of resilience, creativity and leadership
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encourage kindness, fairness and respect in our communities
It’s not about perfection — it’s about momentum. Every generation takes steps forward, and IWD is a joyful reminder that positive change is always possible.
Easy, feel-good ways families can mark International Women’s Day
You don’t need a big event to make it meaningful. Here are simple ideas that work for busy families:
1) Share a “women who inspire us” moment
At dinner, ask: “Who’s a woman you admire and why?” Kids might say a teacher, coach, aunty, grandma — or you.
2) Read a book with a strong female lead
Visit your local library and pick a story that celebrates brave girls, clever women, explorers, inventors or everyday heroes.
3) Write a message of appreciation
A note, a text, or a handmade card to a woman who helps your family — a childcare educator, a neighbour, a mentor, a friend.
4) Support women in your community
Buy from a woman-owned small business, share a local mum-run service, or leave a positive review.
5) Teach kids that fairness is a strength
Use everyday moments to reinforce values like inclusion, equal respect and speaking up when something doesn’t feel right.
A final thought for Eastern Suburbs families
International Women’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the women around us and to raise children who are confident, compassionate and respectful. Whether you mark it with a conversation, a book, a small act of kindness or a moment of gratitude, it all adds up.
Because when we celebrate women — we celebrate stronger families and communities too.
