The Australian Government’s Women’s Budget Statement 2025-26 highlights key initiatives aimed at addressing gender-based violence, economic inequality, and leadership representation—all of which are vital to ensuring women and girls thrive in sport and beyond.

Breaking Barriers in Sport & Leadership

Ensuring that women and girls have equal opportunities in sport is essential for fostering talent, leadership, and lifelong participation. The government is taking steps to:

• Support women’s and girls’ representation and participation in sport.
• Empower First Nations women’s leadership in their communities.
• Embed gender analysis in decision-making across government to create more equitable policies.

A Stronger Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

Sport should be a safe and inclusive space for everyone. To address gender-based violence and support affected individuals, the government is:

• Increasing funding for frontline services, including legal and housing support.
• Strengthening justice and government systems to better protect women and children.
• Engaging with men and boys to break the cycle of violence and promote respectful relationships.

Economic Security for Women in Sport & Beyond

Economic inequality remains a barrier for women in sport, affecting both participation and leadership. Key government actions include:

• Publishing employer gender pay gaps to drive accountability and change.
• Supporting wage growth for low-paid workers, many of whom are women.
• Investing in childcare and parental leave reforms to allow greater workforce participation.

Better Health Access for Women

Women in sport require comprehensive health support to perform at their best. The budget includes:

• Expanded bulk billing and urgent care clinics to improve healthcare access.
• Improved reproductive health services, including IVF, menopause, and endometriosis care.
• Increased funding for women’s chronic health conditions, reducing out-of-pocket costs.

A Step Forward for Women in Sport

The Women’s Budget Statement is a crucial step in addressing the structural barriers women and girls face in sport and across society. By investing in safety, economic security, leadership, and health, the government is building a future where women and girls have equal opportunities to excel in sport and life.

Learn more about the Women’s Budget Statement 2025-26 here: budget.gov.au