Lead with confidence. Inspire with impact.

The CEO Magazine is proud to announce the launch of the Women in Leadership Awards 2026, a premium national recognition program and leadership luncheon celebrating Australia’s most influential women in business.

Taking place on Thursday, 30 July 2026 at The Calyx, Sydney, the event brings together senior executives, founders and emerging leaders for an afternoon dedicated to leadership excellence, meaningful impact and connection at the highest level.

Supported by Commonwealth Bank, the Women in Leadership Awards is both a recognition platform and a national gathering of women shaping the future of Australian business.

A celebration of leadership impact

The Women in Leadership Awards 2026 recognizes senior women leaders who are driving measurable impact across business, community and industry over the past 12 months.

Applicants are typically women in senior leadership roles such as CEO, managing director, founder, chair or equivalent, who are leading significant business operations within Australia.

Selected finalists will be recognized on stage at The Calyx, Sydney during a premium leadership luncheon that blends insight and high-level networking.

A national leadership experience

More than an awards program, the Women in Leadership Awards is a curated leadership experience.

Across the afternoon, guests will hear from respected industry voices, connect with Australia’s most influential executives and take part in a featured leadership session with Colleen Callander, focused on confidence, presence and personal leadership growth.

This is a rare opportunity to step out of the day-to-day and into a room designed for reflection, recognition and connection.

Judging excellence

All applications are reviewed by independent senior leaders assessing leadership excellence, impact and achievement.

The 2026 judges are:

Anna Dutton, Co-Founder & Executive Director, The CEO Magazine

Sandra D’Souza, CEO & Founder, Ellect

Together, the judges bring deep expertise in media, leadership and global gender equity advocacy.

Event experience

Held at The Calyx, Sydney, guests will enjoy a premium, immersive luncheon experience including arrival drinks, curated dining, networking and a live finalist recognition moment.

Each guest will also receive a gift bag featuring The Power of Confidence by Colleen Callander.

Applications now open

Applications for the Women in Leadership Awards 2026 are now open. Join a national community of women leading meaningful change, whether you’re applying for recognition or attending as a guest.

Apply for recognition now or attend the event.