International Women’s Day 2026: 115 years of women leading care

Today, on 8 March 2026, we mark a powerful milestone: 115 years of International Women’s Day.

It is a number that carries special meaning for RSL LifeCare.

Our organisation’s story also began 115 years ago, on 18 October, with the formation of the Veterans’ Home Committee to establish a home for returned servicemen on Bare Island. The committee was made up largely of women, and its first president was Dame Emma Elizabeth Dixson (née Shaw) (1844–1922).

At a time when women of Emma’s social standing were expected to confine their lives to marriage, motherhood and the home, her public leadership was remarkable. Paid work outside the home was not considered appropriate, but philanthropy and committee work were accepted pathways for women to contribute to society. Emma used that space boldly, strategically and with purpose.

She devoted her time, energy and resources to improving the health and wellbeing of others, particularly women and children. Among her many roles, she was a life governor of the Queen Victoria Homes for Consumptives, an organisation that would later become John Goodlet Manor in Picton. Her work reflected a deep belief in care, dignity and practical action.

Emma was also vice president of the National Council of Women (NSW), where she worked to influence government on issues affecting women and children. While she sometimes publicly disagreed with prominent feminists of her era, she never wavered in her determination to support women in the way she believed would make the greatest difference. Even as her health declined, her service to others continued.

More than a century on, that legacy of women leading with care is still alive at RSL LifeCare.

Today, women make up the majority of our workforce, particularly across care, clinical, hospitality and support roles. Every day, women provide hands‑on care, comfort, expertise and compassion to the veterans, residents and clients we serve. In many ways, the care we deliver today is the living continuation of what was started by women like Dame Emma Dixson all those years ago.

As we recognise International Women’s Day 2026, we honour not only a global movement for equality, but the women who shaped our beginnings and the women who continue that work now. Their leadership may look different across generations, but the purpose remains the same: to improve lives through care, service and commitment to others.

This International Women’s Day, we thank the women of RSL LifeCare – past and present – whose work, dedication and quiet determination continue to shape who we are and how we care.

(Photo courtesy of State Library NSW, FL3286790)