Parker Coles Curtis Proudly Hosts International Women’s Day Breakfast 2026
At Parker Coles Curtis, we believe meaningful change happens when people come together with purpose. That’s why we are proud to host the International Women’s Day Breakfast 2026, a premium event raising 100% of profits for Fearless Women.
Taking place on Wednesday 4 March 2026 at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra, the breakfast aligns with the official UN Women Australia International Women’s Day 2026 theme - Balance the Scales. The theme highlights the urgent need to ensure fair, inclusive and accessible justice for women and girls, and recognises that equality requires strong, connected systems of economic security, safety and legal protection.
Why we’re hosting this event
International Women’s Day is more than a moment of celebration. It is an opportunity to reflect, challenge the status quo and contribute to real change.
At Parker Coles Curtis, we see daily how financial insecurity, family violence and barriers to justice intersect in women’s lives. Economic independence, safety and access to legal protection are not separate issues, they are deeply connected.
This event focuses on women’s economic security, safety and justice, recognising that meaningful progress in one area cannot occur without progress in the others.
As major sponsor, Parker Coles Curtis is investing significantly in this event to ensure its success, with all proceeds donated directly to Fearless Women, an organisation delivering vital programs that empower women across our community.
Meet the Speakers
Cherelle Murphy – EY Oceania Chief Economist

Cherelle Murphy is the EY Oceania Chief Economist and a highly respected economic commentator known for delivering clear, practical insights that help people understand the world around them.
Cherelle will provide insights into the economic outlook and women’s financial security, exploring why economic empowerment is fundamental to equality and how financial independence can influence safety, stability and opportunity.
Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher – Minister for Finance and Minister for Women

Katy Gallagher is the Federal Minister for Finance and Minister for Women.
Katy entered politics in 2001 in a bid to boost women’s representation in the ACT Legislative Assembly. Since then, she has dedicated her career to delivering progressive policies, with a particular focus on ensuring government works for women.
In 2022, with the election of the Albanese Government, Katy became a member of Australia’s first majority-women federal government and is now part of the country’s first gender-equal Cabinet.
Holding both the Women and Finance portfolios, Katy will discuss why women’s equality is both a social and economic imperative.
Natasha Janssens – Women With Cents, Certified Money Coach

Through practical education, relatable advice and straight-talk money guidance, Natasha supports women to build financial literacy, make informed decisions and create long-term financial security.
She specialises in breaking down complex financial concepts into accessible, real-world strategies women can apply in everyday life. Natasha believes that when women are equipped with the right knowledge and tools, they gain freedom, choice and opportunity.
Genevieve Jacobs AM – Master of Ceremonies

We are honoured to have Genevieve Jacobs as Master of Ceremonies. She is the CEO of Hands Across Canberra, the ACT’s community foundation, a longtime ABC Canberra presenter and former Group Editor for Region Media.
Genevieve is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and serves on several community and regional boards. In 2021 she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her service to broadcasting and the community. She has a longstanding commitment to strengthening community engagement across the ACT.
Panel discussion
Women’s Economic Security, Safety and Justice - Balancing the Scales
The panel will explore how economic vulnerability, domestic and family violence, and access to justice intersect in women’s lives, and why addressing gender equality requires coordinated responses across financial systems, legal frameworks and community support.
Topics will include:
- the link between financial insecurity and vulnerability
- barriers women face in accessing justice and protection
- the role of policy, legal systems and community support
- how financial literacy and legal support can improve long-term outcomes for women
Panelists
- Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher
- Cherelle Murphy
- Natasha Janssens
The session will be facilitated by Genevieve Jacobs, guiding a thoughtful discussion aligned with the Balance the Scales theme.
The morning experience
Guests will enjoy a premium breakfast, live music and meaningful networking opportunities, bringing together leaders, advocates and allies from business, government and the community, all in support of a vital cause.
This is more than a breakfast.
It is a collective commitment to improving outcomes for women in our community.
Event details
Date: Wednesday 4 March 2026
Time: 7:00am – 9:15am
Venue: Hyatt Hotel Canberra
Tickets: https://cbriwd.eventbrite.com.au
100% of profits donated to Fearless Women
We invite our community, clients and partners to join us in helping balance the scales, supporting women’s safety, security and access to justice.