Women Igniting Change
About
As ARBS 2026 and Fire Australia come together at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, industry professionals from across HVAC&R, fire protection and the broader built environment are invited to attend the inaugural Women Igniting Change event.This is an event for everyone including women working across the industry, those entering it and the men and organisations committed to building a more inclusive future workforce.
Women Igniting Change brings people together to connect, share experiences and launch a shared commitment to pledge support the 30×30 initiative — the Empowered Women in Trades industry ambition to achieve 30% female participation in skilled trades and technical roles by 2030.
- Meet peers, colleagues and new connections from across ARBS and Fire Australia.
- Hear from industry change makers including Bronwyn King AO, Debbie Lee, Michael Morgan, Melinda Davis (EWIT) and other inspiring speakers.
- Sign the inaugural 30×30 Pledge Wall, demonstrating personal and organisational support for increasing female participation across the built environment.
- Enjoy morning tea while you continue conversations and build new connections across industries and disciplines.
Women Igniting Change brings together voices from across industry, health, advocacy and workforce development, united by a shared goal: creating a more inclusive future for the built environment.
Dr Bronwyn King AO: an internationally recognised physician and social impact leader known for driving large-scale change through collaboration and advocacy. A radiation oncologist and founder of the global initiative Tobacco Free Portfolios, she has worked with organisations worldwide to align values, leadership and action.
Peggy O’Neal AO: one of Australia’s most respected leaders across law, governance and sport, recognised for principled leadership and a track record of building high-performing organisations. With more than 25 years specialising in superannuation and financial services law, she brings deep technical expertise alongside long-standing board and executive experience across major institutions.
Melinda Davis: leads Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT), a national organisation working to increase participation and retention of women in skilled trades and technical industries. Through partnerships with schools, employers and industry, Melinda champions practical solutions that open pathways and support long-term careers.
Women Igniting Change is designed to bring the industry together, across every role, every career stage and every pathway, irrespective of gender. Whether you’re on the tools, managing teams, running a business or supporting change, you belong in this room, join us and part of this shared industry commitment.
Location
Clarendon Auditorium
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, 2 Clarendon St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Contact Form
Women Igniting Change
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