Women & Leadership Australia General Manager, Karen Surmon, has announced the National and State/Territory recipients of the 2026 Australian Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership.
The Australian Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership were created by Women & Leadership Australia in 2014 to honour women leaders nominated by the public for their outstanding contribution and lasting impact across business, government, and community in delivering positive outcomes for women, girls or other groups facing disadvantage.
The 2026 Award Recipients:
- Kit McMahon (NATIONAL) Chief Executive Officer, Women’s Health in the South East; Director, Tradeswomen Australia
- Katherine Berney (ACT) Director, Gender Based Violence Prevention at the Foundation of Alcohol Research and Education
- Leah Bennett (NSW) Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Foundation
- Taylah Peters (NT) Manager, Specialist Support Services, Relationships Australia NT; Chairperson, Amber NT
- Jessica Taylor (QLD) Chief Executive Officer, QENDO
- Dr Heidi Mumme (TAS) Director, MI-Fish Consulting; President, Women in Seafood Australasia
- Divya Pasupuleti (VIC) Telecommunications Executive, Board Director and Speaker
- Drisana Levitzke-Gray (WA) Award-Winning Deaf Advocate, Educator & Speaker
- Anne Tonkin (SA) Lecturer; Disability Advocate; Speaker; Author; Author of Tonkin 10/10 Bill
The recipients of the 2026 Australian Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership are featured at an online event on 26 March, Celebrating Women of Impact: Lessons from Changemakers. Register to attend
"Equity doesn’t happen by accident — it’s driven by courageous leadership and sustained action at all levels. The Australian Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership recognises women and gender-diverse leaders who are reshaping workplaces, strengthening communities, and driving lasting change. By celebrating their leadership achievements, we build momentum towards a more equitable future for all,” - says Karen Surmon, General Manager of Women & Leadership Australia.
The 2026 National Award for Excellence in Women’s Leadership
 |
The 2026 National winner is Kit McMahon; Chief Executive Officer, Women’s Health in the South East and Director, Tradeswomen Australia |
Kit said of the award win; “Being selected for this award is both humbling and energising. For over 25 years, I’ve worked to challenge gender segregation in vocational education and champion women’s equality – not because the path is easy, but because every woman and girl deserves to pursue their ambitions without barriers. I’ve learned that meaningful change requires patience, persistence, and collaboration across generations. We build on the work of those who cleared the path before us, and we lead alongside countless others who share this vision. This recognition belongs to all of us working to create a more equitable Australia in our workplaces, our communities, and our systems.”
Karen Surmon said the award acknowledged Kit’s incredible career spanning more than 25 years advancing gender equity and social justice.
“A visionary executive leader and intersectional feminist advocate, Kit has driven systemic reform across health, vocational education and workplaces. As CEO of Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE), National Convenor of Women in Adult Vocational Education (WISE), Director and former Chair of Tradeswomen Australia and inaugural Chair of Gender Equity Victoria, her collaborative leadership has helped secure significant funding and lasting structural change for women across multiple sectors.
Kit’s work is grounded in a deep belief that progress is built collectively and across generations. Her commitment to dismantling systemic barriers, alongside her ongoing research as a PhD candidate at Griffith University, has strengthened pathways for women and girls to pursue their ambitions without limitation.
Her leadership, persistence and dedication make Kit McMahon a truly deserving recipient of this Award.”
Celebrating Women of Impact: Lessons from changemakers
Hear these inspiring leader share their stories at our celebration event. Enjoy curated panel discussions, a special address, and real stories of lasting impact – all in 90 minutes. Register for free now
About the Awards
Over 100 remarkable Australian leaders have been recognised for their leadership since the awards began. Previous Award recipients have included The Hon. Julia Gillard AC, Christine Holgate, Karen Mundine, Magda Szubanski, Janine Allis, Prof Dr Marcia Langton, Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM, and The Hon. Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO.
Find out more about the awards and previous winners
