Women-only spaces in Australia are experiencing a resurgence, catering to diverse needs and promoting empowerment. From reading retreats to fitness studios, these environments offer women a chance to connect, relax, and thrive without the distractions of everyday life.
Emergence of Women-Only Retreats
In 2024, Amy Hart and Crystal Wells launched “A Place to Pause,” a series of reading retreats in Victoria designed exclusively for women. The initiative arose from their personal desire for guilt-free reading time, away from the demands of work and family. Hart explains, “We were both juggling busy lives, and while we always had great intentions to read during our downtime, the pile of laundry or the demands of work often called louder than our books.”
This retreat aims to create an atmosphere where women can enjoy literature without interruptions. The founders emphasize that while the retreats are women-only, they are not intended to exclude men but rather respond to the unique struggles women face in carving out personal time.
Legal Framework and Community Support
Women-only spaces are permitted under specific exemptions from the Sex Discrimination Act in Australia, as noted by Beth Gaze, a professorial fellow at the University of Melbourne law school. Gaze cites Fernwood Fitness Studios as a successful example of a women-only business that has thrived since its inception in the 1990s. The studio’s founders argued that women were less likely to use mixed-gender gyms due to concerns over feeling uncomfortable or excluded.
Despite this, Gaze acknowledges that not all applications for women-only spaces have met with success, describing the current legal landscape as “a bit of a mess.” She notes that political hesitation often hampers the resolution of these issues.
Recreational Spaces for Women
One significant venue for women in Australia is McIver’s Ladies Baths at Coogee Beach, which has served as a sanctuary for women and children since its opening in 1876. The baths were established during a time when women were largely barred from public pools.
Alex Bowen, president of the Randwick and Coogee Ladies Swimming Association, highlights the importance of this space: “For over 150 years, the baths have given women a place to swim with dignity and privacy.” The facility remains a vital environment where women can engage in aquatic activities without judgment.
Dance and Community Connection
In November 2022, the Disco Club was launched by Sarah Wills and Lise Carlaw as a women-only dance event, which has quickly expanded across major Australian cities. The founders were surprised by the rapid growth, with events often selling out. Wills reflects on the experience, stating, “We’ve seen first-hand the collective joy of women of all ages coming together in a happy, safe, judgment-free space.”
The Disco Club has become a phenomenon, offering women a nostalgic clubbing experience without the typical pressures found in mixed environments.
Supporting Women in Business
The need for dedicated workspaces for women has been recognized by initiatives such as One Roof, a co-working community based in Melbourne. Co-founder Frances Goh explains that the initiative was born from the necessity of providing women access to networks and resources often denied in traditional business environments. “Women-only spaces create psychological safety and speed,” she states, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among female entrepreneurs.
One Roof has evolved from a physical space to an online community, supporting women across Australia, and is described by members as a shared momentum rather than a solitary journey.
Empowerment Through Travel
Travel opportunities tailored for women have also gained traction, with Sisterhood Women’s Travel leading the way since its establishment 20 years ago. Hayley Morris, the founder, sought to create a supportive travel environment, especially for women from vulnerable backgrounds. Initially operating under an exemption from the Equal Opportunity Act, the company has since transitioned as the market for women-only travel has grown.
Morris highlights the benefits of women-only tours, including safety and community. “Over the years, we’ve had many women from domestic violence backgrounds who have travelled and regained their wings, and I’m so proud of this,” she says.
Fitness and Wellness for Women
Another significant development in women-only spaces is the establishment of fitness facilities like Empowa Fitness, founded in 2014 in Erskine Park. Co-founder Dev Krishna notes that having a women-only gym allows for tailored programs that foster connection and community among members. “It also allows us to design programs specifically for women, while fostering real connection and community that would otherwise prove difficult in a traditional male-dominant gym,” he explains.
With a focus on creating a supportive environment, Empowa Fitness has garnered a reputation as a second home for many women, helping them build strength, confidence, and friendships.
Women-only spaces across Australia are not just thriving; they are transforming lives by providing environments where empowerment, safety, and community flourish. As these initiatives continue to grow, they reflect a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and support for women in various aspects of life.
