A Golden Year for Women’s Sport in Australia

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for women’s sport in Australia — a year that will see athletes, fans and communities come together to celebrate achievements, break new ground and inspire the next generation. From the pitch to the court, from the track to the cycling road, Aussie women are ready to seize the spotlight like never before.

AFC Women’s Asian Cup on Home Soil

One of the biggest highlights of the year is the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, returning to Australia with matches across Perth, Sydney and the Gold Coast. This landmark tournament brings together the best in Asian women’s football, with the Matildas leading the charge as hosts and fan favourites. With passionate crowds expected to pack stadiums, this event isn’t just a tournament — it’s a celebration of how far women’s football has come and how bright its future is.

World-Class Women’s Golf on the Central Coast

Golf fans have plenty to look forward to with the 2026 Australian Women’s Classic set for Magenta Shores from March 5-8. This elite tournament, co-sanctioned by the Ladies European Tour and WPGA Tour of Australasia, promises dramatic competition on a stunning coastal course — and another opportunity to showcase elite female golfers both at home and overseas.

Cycling and the Women’s Tour Down Under

The Women’s Tour Down Under takes centre stage in Adelaide, kicking off the international cycling season from January 17-19. It’s one of the first major races of the year for women on the global calendar and always delivers thrilling competition against a beautiful backdrop — a powerful reminder of Australia’s place on the world stage in women’s cycling.

Strong Domestic Competitions Across the Board

Back on home soil, domestic leagues continue to grow and excite:

• The Women’s National Cricket League and Women’s Big Bash League offer fans weeks of high-quality cricket across states and cities — showcasing star batters, elite bowlers and unforgettable moments.
• In basketball, the WNBL is building momentum after a historic pay deal aimed at strengthening professionalism and making the league even more competitive and sustainable into the future.

These competitions aren’t just games — they’re platforms where young girls can see themselves reflected in sporting heroes and imagine their own futures in sport.

Sharing Best Practice and Growing Participation

2026 isn’t just about elite performance — it’s about lifting women in sport at every level. The Women in Sport Congress in Brisbane brings together experts in athlete health, performance and leadership, helping to shape the future of female sport both on and off the field.

Looking Ahead: Inspiration and Impact

Across Australia, we’re seeing more investment, visibility and community engagement in women’s sport than ever before. Events like the Asian Cup will pave the way for future global competitions, while local leagues provide pathways for emerging stars.

This is a year where girls in backyard fields, community courts and local pools will look up and see themselves reflected in powerful, vibrant role models. Sport is no longer just watched — it’s becoming a shared living legacy that connects families, communities and entire generations.

2026 is more than a calendar year — it’s a celebration of strength, passion and progress. With home-grown talent and world-stage exposure, women’s sport in Australia isn’t just growing — it’s thriving. Whether you’re cheering in the stands, taking part in your local club, or watching on TV, there has never been a more exciting time to be part of the movement.

Let’s play, compete and celebrate — because this year, the future of sport is brighter than ever.