Australia’s most impactful female leaders gathered at The Calyx in Sydney on Thursday, 30 July, for The CEO Magazine’s inaugural Women in Leadership Awards.

Supported by Commonwealth Bank, the elegant luncheon celebrated 40 finalists selected for their leadership impact, influence and measurable contribution over the past 12 months.

The independent judging panel comprised The CEO Magazine’s Co-Founder and Executive Director Anna Dutton and Ellect CEO and Founder Sandra D’Souza.

“The caliber of applicants was exceptional, making the judging process incredibly difficult,” Dutton says.

“Each finalist demonstrated meaningful leadership impact, but our recipients stood out for the scale of their achievements and the lasting change they are creating across their organizations and communities.”

Meet the winners

Susan Toft, CEO and Founder of The Laundry Lady, was named the 2026 Women in Leadership Award winner.

Since launching the business as a one-woman operation in 2012, Toft has transformed it into a global technology-enabled marketplace supporting more than 550 independent Laundry Partners.

She was selected for combining strong commercial growth with meaningful social impact, creating flexible opportunities and greater economic independence for women.

Arabella Gibson, CEO of Gidget Foundation Australia, was named runner-up for her purpose-driven leadership and contribution to perinatal mental health.

Over the past year, Gibson has led a significant expansion phase, strengthened partnerships and secured investment to increase access to services for expectant and new parents across Australia.

Mairead Breen, Executive General Manager and Co-Founder of FSC Civils, and Laura Cowell, Group CEO of Tender Loving Care, received Highly Commended recognition for their inclusive, people-first leadership and measurable impact across their respective sectors.

An afternoon of connection

A highlight of the afternoon was an interactive leadership session with former Sportsgirl CEO and bestselling author Colleen Callander, exploring confidence, leadership presence and personal growth.

Set within Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden, The Calyx provided a striking setting for the occasion, with sculptural florals, sophisticated styling and carefully considered details creating a polished yet intimate atmosphere.

Guests enjoyed a curated selection of wines from Calabria Family Wines and sparkling wine from Clover Hill, alongside Papa Salt Blood Orange Gin Spritz and a specially created IMBIBE Beauty Renewal Raspberry Limoncello Spritz.

Each guest received a curated gift bag featuring Colleen Callander’s book The Power of Confidence, together with products and offers from Runway Room, IMBIBE, Lanolips, Papa Salt, Vanessa Megan, St Frock and Ellect.