The popular “Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow” is set to return in 2026, following strong demand and securing over $52,000 in additional funding from the Minns Labor Government. The initiative aims to empower regional and rural women across New South Wales by providing essential skills through free workshops, with over 300 women participating in 30 sold-out sessions in 2025.
The workshops focus on vital skills such as first aid and mental health crisis support, delivered in partnership with St John Ambulance. Participants in these programs include young mothers seeking first aid knowledge and community workers who need skills to address mental health crises.
The first half of 2026 will see the launch of 16 workshops in eight new locations, including Glen Innes, Narrabri, Gilgandra, and Scone. These workshops are designed to equip women with the ability to respond effectively in emergencies, recognize mental health issues, and provide appropriate interventions. Each location will offer a full-day workshop certifying participants in both First Aid and Mental Health support.
The increasing demand for such training is underscored by recent statistics from St John Ambulance. Registrations for the first four locations will open today, at 9am AEDT, with a subsequent opening in April for additional sites. Interested individuals can find more information and register at nsw.gov.au/rwn-roadshow.
Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “The NSW Government is empowering regional and rural women to access this life-saving training to bridge an important gap, particularly for women who would have otherwise missed out due to cost or travel.” She emphasized the program’s role in enhancing resilience within regional communities.
Dominic Teakle, CEO of St John Ambulance, echoed these sentiments, noting the overwhelming response to last year’s roadshow. He stated, “By expanding to eight new towns across NSW, we’re ensuring more women have access to critical First Aid and Mental Health training that could save lives.”
Teakle underscored the significance of the investment, mentioning that these workshops not only build confidence and capability but also foster resilience in communities. “More education means more control and more resilience for women and their families,” he added.
The return of the “Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow” signifies a commitment to community empowerment and the vital role women play in enhancing the well-being of their regions.
