Women Deliver 2026 Conference Offers Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia

Young leaders and changemakers from the Oceanic Pacific region have a unique opportunity to attend the Women Deliver 2026 (WD2026) Conference in Narrm (Melbourne), Australia, thanks to fully funded scholarships. The conference, scheduled from April 27-30, 2026, marks the first time this major global event will be held in the Oceanic Pacific. With the theme "Resist, Reimagine, Rebuild," WD2026 focuses on gender equality, climate change, and justice for Indigenous communities.

Women Deliver anticipates over 6,500 participants, and the scholarships aim to ensure representation from marginalized communities within the Oceanic Pacific. These scholarships cover all expenses, including flights, visa costs, accommodation, meals, insurance, and conference registration fees.

Scholarship Details and Eligibility

The Women Deliver 2026 Conference scholarships are specifically targeted towards young individuals under 30 years of age (as of January 1, 2026) who are citizens of or currently residing in countries within the Oceanic Pacific region. Applicants must be actively involved in community work, demonstrating leadership, volunteerism, or organizational skills. Priority will be given to individuals from historically underrepresented groups.

First Nations or Indigenous communities LGBTQIA+ communities Persons with disabilities Refugees or internally displaced persons Adolescent girls and young women from low-income backgrounds

Furthermore, applicants must not have previously received a Women Deliver Conference scholarship. This initiative aims to broaden participation and provide opportunities to new voices in the global dialogue on gender equality and related issues.

Conference Focus: Resist, Reimagine, Rebuild

The WD2026 theme, "Resist, Reimagine, Rebuild," reflects the urgent need for collective action in the face of global challenges. The conference will feature workshops, cultural events, youth spaces, and keynote addresses, providing a platform for participants to connect, share knowledge, and develop strategies for advancing gender equality, addressing climate change, and promoting justice for Indigenous communities.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Regional Representation

Dr. Eleanor Grant, a Senior Lecturer in Gender Studies at the University of Sydney, emphasizes the significance of hosting the Women Deliver Conference in the Oceanic Pacific region. "Bringing the conference to this region is crucial for amplifying the voices and experiences of women and girls who are often marginalized in global conversations," Dr. Grant explains. "The fully funded scholarships are a vital mechanism for ensuring that young leaders from diverse backgrounds can participate and contribute to shaping the future of gender equality."

Application Process and Timeline

The application period for the Women Deliver 2026 Conference Scholarships opens on July 18, 2025, and closes on August 10, 2025. Interested applicants should visit the official Women Deliver website to access the application form and review the detailed eligibility criteria. The application form must be completed in one session, and applicants are advised to avoid using translation tools during the process.

Successful applicants will be notified by November 2025. The scholarship covers:

Full registration for the Women Deliver 2026 Conference Hotel accommodation from April 26 to April 30, 2026 Roundtrip economy-class airfare Visa fees and related travel costs Daily allowance (per diem) to cover local transport and meals Travel insurance

Additional support is available for participants with disabilities or those under 18 who require a guardian to accompany them.

Historical Context: Women Deliver's Commitment to Global Gender Equality

Women Deliver has a long history of advocating for gender equality and the health and rights of girls and women. Founded in 2007, the organization has consistently worked to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and drive action on critical issues affecting women and girls worldwide. Their conferences are renowned for bringing together diverse stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, academics, and young leaders, to foster collaboration and accelerate progress towards a more equitable world.

A Call to Action

The Women Deliver 2026 Conference Scholarships represent a significant opportunity for young individuals from the Oceanic Pacific region to engage in critical discussions, build networks, and contribute to shaping a more just and equitable future. Aspiring applicants are encouraged to prepare their applications carefully and submit them before the August 10, 2025 deadline.

Analytical Viewpoint: Addressing Systemic Barriers

According to a report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), young people in the Oceanic Pacific region face significant barriers to accessing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. These barriers are often compounded by factors such as gender inequality, climate change, and displacement. The Women Deliver scholarships directly address these systemic issues by providing a platform for young people from marginalized communities to advocate for their rights and contribute to solutions.