Minister for Youth, Seniors and Equality
Media Release Backing Community Action for International Women's Day 2026
4 March 2026
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is supporting community-led events across the Territory to mark International Women's Day (IWD) 2026.
$67,000 in grants will be invested in 36 initiatives across the Territory to celebrate the achievements of women and girls and promote gender equality across the Territory.
Promoting gender equality builds a safer, more inclusive Territory and strengthens participation, leadership and domestic, family and sexual violence prevention.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is backing community-led action across the Territory to mark International Women's Day (IWD) 2026, supporting local events that celebrate women and drive real progress toward gender equality.
Through the International Women's Day Grants program, community organisations have received between $500 and $3,000 each to deliver local events that celebrate the achievements of women and girls and promote gender equity.
Minister for Youth, Seniors and Equality Jinson Charls said International Women's Day was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women and girls across the Northern Territory and to recommit to action on gender equality.
"These grants empower local organisations to design events that reflect the priorities of their communities - whether that's supporting young women in sport, promoting digital skills, strengthening cultural identity or creating safe and inclusive spaces," Mr Charls said.
"Gender equality is everyone's responsibility - it requires deliberate action from governments, communities and individuals.
"I encourage all Territorians to attend an event near them and be part of building a more inclusive Territory."
Events will take place across Darwin, Palmerston and 13 regional and remote locations in the first week of March, leading up to International Women's Day on Sunday 8 March - ensuring communities right across the Territory can take part.
This year's theme, "Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls", highlights the need for collective action to address ongoing barriers to safety, equality and fairness.
Funded events include regional and remote celebrations; domestic, family and sexual violence prevention initiatives; sporting activities; multicultural and youth programs; LGBTQIA+ gatherings; arts programs and disability-inclusive activities.
More than $67,000 is being invested in 36 grants to deliver community-led events that reflect the diversity, strength and resilience of Territory women.
The annual Darwin International Women's Day Walk, delivered by the United Nations Association of Australia NT Branch, will be held at 8am on Saturday 7 March at Charles Darwin University's Danala Campus. The walk will travel through the Darwin CBD and include opening speeches, a community walk and post-walk activities such as information stalls, workshops, children's activities and food.
Investing in grassroots, inclusive events that build confidence, leadership and participation helps restore and strengthen the Territory lifestyle - one where women and girls feel safe, valued and empowered to contribute to strong families, thriving communities and a more resilient Territory.
An NT-wide International Women's Day event calendar is available online: International Women's Day events | Department of People, Sport and Culture. here
