One of the biggest gender equality events will be held in Australia for the first time, with Melbourne set to welcome more than 6,500 gender equality advocates, thought leaders and decision-makers from across the world.
Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins has announced that the Allan Labor Government is supporting the three-day Women Deliver Conference 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre - the first time it will be held in the Oceania Pacific region.
Held every three years, the conference will attract attendees from more than 170 countries around the world and more than 150 organisations. It is expected to generate $32 million for the Victorian economy.
The conference will be held from 27-30 April and comes off the back of Victoria's successful role as Oceanic Pacific Regional Convening Partner in the lead-up to Women Deliver Conference in 2023.
The event will showcase the region's efforts to advance gender equality and provide opportunities to strengthen and form new national and regional partnerships.
Women Deliver is a leading global advocacy organisation championing gender equality and the health and rights of women and girls.
Melbourne's successful bid highlights the city's ability to deliver world-class events - adding to a significant pipeline of major global conferences in 2025, including World Chambers Congress, APAC Wind Energy Summit, and World Cancer Leaders' Summit.
Women Deliver Conference 2026 is supported by Business Events Australia and the Labor Government through the Melbourne Convention Bureau.
As stated by Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins
"Victoria is a world leader when it comes to gender equality, the prevention of family violence and the gender pain gap - this conference will bring thousands of experts from all over the world to work together with local experts and drive global outcomes for women."
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"We have a proven track record in delivering exceptional global events and Women Deliver will be no different - with thousands of delegates visiting the heart of Victoria and providing a major boost to our visitor economy."
As stated by Women Deliver President and CEO Dr. Maliha Khan
"We are thrilled to work with our partners in the Oceanic Pacific to bring one of the most influential spaces for gender equality to the region."
As stated by Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson
"Melbourne Convention Bureau was delighted to lead the bid to secure the hosting rights for Women Deliver 2026, to be held in Melbourne on behalf of the Oceania Pacific region.
As stated by Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison
"Supporting the securing of the bid to host Women Deliver 2026 on behalf of Oceania Pacific is exciting news for Melbourne, Victoria and Australia as the event will make a meaningful contribution to both the local and broader Australian visitor economies."
