Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) has marked the eve of International Women’s Day by confirming recipients of its Empowering Women Initiative. 

Now in its second year, the Empowering Women Initiative commits $20,000 AUD to support programs and experiences that create opportunities for women and girls across Oceania. 

This year, seven applications from six nations and territories were received, with two securing $10,000 AUD each to drive meaningful change. 

Tuvalu will be supported to establish an empowerment training program entitled Safeguarding Women’s Sport. 

Set to feature education for female athletes, coaches and administrators, the program will include a series of workshops, case studies and practical exercises that aim to educate on abuse prevention, reporting and gender equity. 

The program will be delivered by the Tuvalu Association for Sports and National Olympic Committee (TASNOC). 

“This support is a significant step forward, and it will provide the sports system with the necessary resources it needs to bring this essential safeguarding programs to life,” Alice Ave, Sport Education Officer, said. 

“This training will empower women and girls in Tuvalu, promoting leadership and fostering a safe, inclusive sports environment.” 

“Our long-term aim is to create a lasting legacy that empowers future generations and strengthens gender equality within Tuvalu’s sports community.” 

Fiji will receive funding to support the Nasinu Rugby Football Union in delivering the DRIPS Program, which empowers young women and girls in the Nausori and Suva communities through grassroots rugby. 

The contribution made ensures Nasinu Rugby can host a women’s Rugby 7’s tournament, providing community teams with competition, networking and development opportunities.  

Beyond developing athletes, the DRIPS Program empowers young women with leadership, teamwork and life skills, while addressing important social challenges and fostering positive change in their communities. 

“DRIPS isn’t just about rugby, it’s about building strong, empowered young women who uplift their communities,” Esita Nadakai, Manager of the Women’s Provincial Team at Nasinu Rugby, said.  

“Through sport, we’re fostering mentorship, leadership, and lifelong skills that extend beyond the field.” 

CGA CEO, Craig Phillips AM, congratulated the successful applicants and reaffirmed CGA’s ongoing commitment to the Oceania region.  

“International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of inclusion and empowerment, and the innovative applications we received effectively highlight the valuable work being done across the region in support of women and girls,” Phillips said. 

“The Empowering Women Initiative is one of the many undertakings of CGA to promote diversity and inclusion, working closing with our colleagues in Oceania to make sport accessible for the largest possible cohort of people. 

“We wish the successful applicants every success in delivering their initiatives and thank our colleagues across the region who took the time to apply.” 

The Empowering Women Initiative returns in 2025 for its second year and will continue as an annual commitment by CGA to increase access and opportunities for women in sport across the Oceania region. 

The application window for 2026 will open in the first quarter of 2026 with submissions closing on 21 Feb 2026.