Women Deliver 2026 Conference Offers Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia

Applications are being accepted for the Women Deliver 2026 Conference Scholarships, offering a fully funded opportunity for young leaders from the Oceanic Pacific region to attend the global conference in Narrm (Melbourne), Australia, from April 27 to 30, 2026. This marks the first time the major international event will be held in the Oceanic Pacific. The conference anticipates bringing together over 6,500 individuals, including youth advocates and change agents, to collaborate, learn, and strategize on critical issues.

Conference Theme: Resist, Reimagine, Rebuild

The central theme of the Women Deliver 2026 (WD2026) conference is "Resist, Reimagine, Rebuild," emphasizing gender equality, climate action, and justice for Indigenous communities. The conference aims to amplify voices often marginalized in global dialogues, providing a platform for impactful discussions and collaborative solutions.

Fully Funded Scholarships for Oceanic Pacific Youth

Women Deliver is committed to ensuring broad participation by offering fully funded scholarships specifically for young people under 30 who are from or currently residing in the Oceanic Pacific region. These scholarships cover all expenses, including round-trip airfare, visa costs, hotel accommodation, meals, travel insurance, and conference registration. Priority will be given to applicants from First Nations communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, displaced populations, and young women from low-income backgrounds.

Opportunity for Underrepresented Voices

These scholarships are designed to empower young activists, students, and community workers by providing them with the opportunity to connect with global leaders, participate in workshops and cultural events, and contribute to meaningful conversations. The conference will feature dedicated youth spaces and high-profile speakers, fostering a dynamic environment for networking and skill-building.

Application Details

The application period opens on July 18, 2025, and closes on August 10, 2025. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials in advance.

Host Country: Australia Host City: Narrm (Melbourne) Regionally Hosted by: Oceanic Pacific WD2026 Dates: April 27–30, 2026 Application Deadline: August 10, 2025

Scholarship Coverage:

Full registration for the Women Deliver 2026 Conference Hotel accommodation (April 26 – April 30, 2026) Roundtrip economy-class airfare Visa fees and related travel costs Daily allowance (per diem) for local transport and meals Travel insurance Additional support for one accompanying person (for participants with disabilities or those under 18 needing a guardian)

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Women Deliver 2026 Conference Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be under the age of 30 as of January 1, 2026. Be from or currently residing in an Oceanic Pacific country. Be actively engaged in community work (volunteering, organizing, or youth leadership). Preference will be given to individuals from marginalized backgrounds, including: First Nations or Indigenous communities LGBTQIA+ communities Persons with disabilities Refugees or internally displaced persons Adolescent girls and young women from low-income backgrounds Must not have previously received a Women Deliver Conference scholarship.

Application Process

Visit the official Women Deliver 2026 Scholarships page. Carefully review all details and eligibility requirements. Gather all required information and documents. Complete the online application form in one sitting. Refrain from using translation tools during the application process. Submit the application before the deadline: August 10, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified by November 2025.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Inclusivity in Global Forums

Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading scholar in gender studies and international development at the University of Sydney, emphasizes the significance of scholarships like these in fostering inclusivity. "Global conferences often lack representation from marginalized communities, perpetuating existing power imbalances," Dr. Vance explains. "The Women Deliver scholarships are crucial in leveling the playing field, allowing young leaders from the Oceanic Pacific to contribute their unique perspectives and experiences to critical discussions on gender equality and sustainable development. Their voices are essential in shaping effective and equitable policies."

Historical Context of Women Deliver and Scholarship Initiatives

Women Deliver has a long history of advocating for gender equality and the health and rights of girls and women. Since its inception, the organization has consistently strived to make its conferences accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, recognizing that meaningful progress requires the active participation of those most affected by the issues at hand. The scholarship program is a direct manifestation of this commitment, aimed at dismantling barriers and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Impact of WD2026 on the Oceanic Pacific Region

The decision to host WD2026 in the Oceanic Pacific region underscores the growing recognition of the unique challenges and opportunities within this area. As Professor Kenji Sato, a specialist in Pacific Island Studies at the Australian National University notes, "The Pacific region faces distinct vulnerabilities related to climate change, social inequality, and cultural preservation. By bringing the Women Deliver conference to Melbourne, there is a significant opportunity to amplify the voices of Pacific Islanders and to ensure that their specific needs and priorities are integrated into global policy discussions. This can lead to more tailored and effective solutions for the region."

Applicants are encouraged to visit the official Women Deliver website for more information and to access the application portal. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a global movement for gender equality and social justice.