International Women's Day 2026
International Women’s Day (IWD) – celebrated annually on 8 March – highlights global gender equality efforts.
The 2026 theme, ‘Balance the Scales’, calls for justice, safety and representation for all women and girls. It highlights the need to address unjust laws, policies and barriers that prevent women and girls from living safely, being heard, and shaping their own futures.
Keynote address from Jas Rawlinson
This year, UQ will mark International Women’s Day with a keynote address on Thursday 12 March at UQ St Lucia.
The speaker, Jas Rawlinson, is an award-winning speaker, best-selling author, and survivor-advocate who empowers changemakers to own their story. Jas is a respected lived-experience advocate and subject expert on coercive control, trauma-informed leadership, and domestic violence. She will offer both personal insight and practical steps for creating fairer, safer, and more inclusive communities.
The session will be hosted by Dr Bethany Mackay, Director of Student Support and Wellbeing Services, with opening remarks from Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry AC.
Register for the keynote
Gender equality at UQ
Gender equality is a long-term priority for UQ, strengthened through our 2026 Gender Equality Action Plan.
UQ is committed to leading the higher education sector in preventing and responding to gender‑based violence. Our work under the National Code and through Safer Communities reflects a proactive, systemic approach to improving safety, equity, and inclusion.
By participating in IWD 2026, staff and students help contribute to a culture where all members of our community feel safe, respected and empowered.
International Women's Day events at UQ
Yarning panel - Balance the Scales
Everyone welcome
Friday 6 March, 12pm to 1:30pm
Room 212, Sir Llew Edwards Building (14), UQ St Lucia and Online
Register to attend a thought-provoking Yarning Panel hosted by the UQ RAP Network. Together, we’ll explore this year’s IWD theme (Balance the Scales) through shared stories and lived experiences led by a panel of strong First Nations women. They will highlight the urgent need to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman and girl and the role that community, culture, and connection play in driving real change. Light refreshment provided.
Lighting up Forgan Smith
In the week leading up to International Women’s Day, the Forgan Smith building will be lit up in purple – the official colour of the day.
