International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a chance to recognise the achievements of women in business, reflect on progress and acknowledge the work still to be done. This year, the IWD 2025 theme is ‘Accelerate Action’, a call to step forward in solidarity and take meaningful steps to speed up progress towards gender equality.

We work alongside incredible female leaders, entrepreneurs and business owners every day. They’re driving change, building successful businesses and proving that the future of business is diverse, innovative and full of opportunity. But for many women, the challenges of gender inequality in business still persist.

While IWD is an opportunity to celebrate progress, it’s important to recognise that not everyone sees it as a cause for celebration. Some believe it has shifted away from its original intent, becoming more about corporate branding than real change. The reality is that true equality doesn’t come from a single day of recognition—it comes from taking ongoing, deliberate steps to accelerate action, ensuring equal pay and fair opportunities, and breaking down the barriers that still exist for women in business today.

The Wins & Challenges for Women in Business

Women have made significant progress in the business world, but to truly accelerate progress, we need to continue breaking down systemic barriers to leadership and entrepreneurship.

Progress worth celebrating:

  • More women are starting and growing successful businesses.
  • Networks and funding opportunities for female entrepreneurs are increasing.
  • Representation in leadership roles is improving.
  • Flexible work policies are improving workforce participation.
  • Corporate leadership diversity is improving.

Barriers still to overcome:

  • Women-led businesses receive significantly less funding and investment.
  • The gender pay gap and leadership gap persist.
  • Balancing business, leadership and personal responsibilities remains a challenge.
  • Women take on a higher share of unpaid caregiving responsibilities.

“IWD is a day to reflect on the achievements of the women who came before me and who I see around me. And to advocate for gender equality in those areas where work is still required.” – Maria Kelly, Accounting & Tax Partner, Ipswich

Insights from Women in Leadership

To celebrate IWD, we asked Carbon’s female partners to share their thoughts on leadership and the challenges women in business continue to face.

“Have a plan and don’t be deterred by the detours along the way. Be kind to yourself. Celebrate the wins and learn from the setbacks.” – Vicki Yorston, Accounting & Tax Partner, Ipswich.

“Back yourself, gather a good team around you and go hard. You can achieve.” – Kristen Kubank, Bookkeeping & CFO Services Partner, Adelaide.

“Bring your true self, trust your instincts and never doubt what you can bring to the table. We can support each other without fear of competition or judgement.” – Deb Vawdrey, Bookkeeping & CFO Services Partner, Warragul.

“It’s about celebrating the diversity of humanity and recognising that we all have a place in society no matter what we choose.” – Gail Rogerson, Bookkeeping & CFO Services Partner, Brisbane.

These are valuable insights not just for women but for anyone looking to succeed in business.

How Carbon Supports Women in Business

We’re committed to helping female-led businesses thrive by providing expert financial and strategic support—because when women succeed, we accelerate action towards a more equal business landscape. We’ve worked with incredible women across various industries, helping them scale, manage finances and take their businesses to the next level.

The Lala Group: Transforming Financial Challenges into Business Growth

For over 20 years, Lala Macnab has built a multi-brand business empire, including Lala for Business, Paper & Ink Studio, and Good Vibe Scents. However, as her businesses grew, so did the financial complexity. With Xero setup, financial coaching, and tax planning from Carbon, Lala transitioned from financial overwhelm to complete confidence in her numbers.

“Thanks to Carbon, I’ve become a much more confident business owner. I finally understand the financial side of my businesses, and I don’t avoid looking at the numbers anymore. Now, I use them to make informed decisions and drive growth.” – Lala Macnab, Founder, The Lala Group

Read the full case study → How Carbon helped The Lala Group

Caitlyn Shadbolt: Supporting an Artist to Focus on Her Music

Juggling the demands of a music career and financial management can be challenging. As an award-winning country music artist, Caitlyn Shadbolt needed expert accounting support to help her streamline her business finances. Carbon helped with tax planning, Xero training, and financial advisory, allowing Caitlyn to refocus on her music with confidence.

“Having Carbon by my side feels like having a dedicated teammate. They provide me with peace of mind in areas I previously struggled with.” – Caitlyn Shadbolt, Australian Singer & Songwriter

Read the full case study → How Carbon helped Caitlyn Shadbolt

Grazie Gifts & Hampers: Helping a Creative Business Owner Take Control of Her Finances

Running a gift hamper business is all about creating joy, but for Vera Ensor, owner of Grazie Gifts & Hampers, managing finances was overwhelming. Carbon set up Xero, trained Vera on bookkeeping, and streamlined her tax and payroll processes, freeing her to focus on growing her brand.

Read the full case study → Grazie Gifts & Hampers’ success story

HR Dept Western Suburbs Perth: Financial Clarity for a Franchise Business

As both a franchisee and franchisor, Pia Engstrom faced complex financial and compliance challenges. Carbon provided specialised franchise accounting, tax compliance, and strategic financial oversight to help her streamline operations and secure long-term growth.

Read the full case study → HR Dept’s partnership with Carbon

VeinTech: Helping a Medical Start-Up Scale with CFO Support

Perth-based start-up VeinTech was founded to revolutionise the medical industry with its innovative VeinWave device. However, like many entrepreneurs, the founders lacked financial expertise. Carbon stepped in, providing CFO services, tax compliance, and business structuring support to help the company secure funding and scale successfully.

“Since Carbon came on board, a lot of the previously tedious and labour-intensive processes have become automated and much easier to manage. We also have peace of mind knowing that when we need help, Carbon will be there for whatever we need.” – Nick Buckley, Co-Founder & CEO, VeinTech

Read the full case study → VeinTech’s journey

The Future: Supporting Women Beyond IWD

International Women’s Day isn’t just about celebrating achievements, it’s about taking real action to ensure ongoing progress and equal opportunities for women in business. The theme for IWD 2025, ‘Accelerate Action’, reminds us that while progress has been made, we must move faster to remove barriers and create a more inclusive future.

We’re committed to supporting female-led businesses beyond just one day because when we take action together, we drive lasting change.

Here’s how we can all contribute:

  • Encourage and mentor women in business.
  • Advocate for equal opportunities and leadership diversity.
  • Celebrate women’s achievements, big and small.
  • Support policies that improve access to funding for women-led businesses.
  • Promote flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.
  • Recognise and address gender bias in hiring, promotions and pay equity.
  • Invest in female-led businesses and initiatives.

We’re here to support women in business every step of the way. If you’re looking for financial guidance or expert advice to help your business grow, let’s have a conversation.

Get in touch with our team today.