A message from Theresa Collignon, CEO, Macquarie Community College.
“Balance the Scales” is the official theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, highlighting the urgent need to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman and girl.
We know that participating in quality lifelong learning is a game changer that empowers women and girls to engage in their communities, develop their skills, attain qualifications that lead to employment and financial independence – all key elements of more equitable social justice and stronger communities.
Balancing the Scales — Together
As we mark International Women’s Day 2026, we are committed to working with government at all levels, partners and supporters to continue championing inclusive, lifelong learning for women and girls. Together, we can balance the scales and create pathways to opportunity, dignity and justice.
At a recent address to the Business Western Sydney Education Forum in Parramatta I spoke about the large and widening gap of equitable access for those that face barriers to participation – lack of investment for local campuses, pursuit of rankings, and factors such as user choice, fees, rankings, lack of housing and transport that are leaving many talented and capable Sydney residents behind – and industries short of skilled workers.
Over the past decades, according to the OECD, Australia has gradually become one of the most segregated and least equitable education systems in the English speaking world in terms of access and equity for all. Together we can change this.
Creating Pathways to Opportunity
At Macquarie Community College, we are passionate about creating affordable inclusion and access to transformational training and education that creates connections and pathways to a better future.
We support thousands of women of all ages in our programs – from teenagers enrolled at Gateway Community High, migrants building strong futures by gaining skills, local qualifications and employment, to individuals returning to learning after many years, and those seeking qualifications for a career change.
We strive to create learning environments where our students from all walks of life feel welcomed, respected and supported — so that they can achieve their learning goals, make enduring connections, build their confidence, get qualifications, gain employment, improve their wellbeing and achieve their goals.
Stories of Strength and New Beginnings
Karen, recently returned to education to update her Computer skills and stay current with quick technological changes.
Her learning journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to personal growth.
Nadia and her daughter came to Australia from Indonesia but unfortunately faced domestic violence. WAGEC supported them proving the safe house and advised her to complete the MCC Aged & Disability Care courses as a way to make a fresh start.
At Macquarie Community College Nadia discovered the power of learning in a supportive environment. She enjoys the balance of theory and hands-on practice while learning skills for a new career in aged care and disability. Read Nadia’s story here.
Inclusive Education Changes Lives
Across our six campuses in Greater Western and North West Sydney, in community venues and online we offer more than 220 courses that give women the chance to build skills, confidence and connection. Our priority is to support each learner’s progress, no matter their starting point. One of those programs is the SEE Program taking enrolments now in Blacktown and Mount Druitt.
