Molly Hadfield Social Justice Oration 2026
Published on 06 March 2026
As part of Darebin City Council’s 2026 International Women’s Day celebrations, the 12th Molly Hadfield Social Justice Oration will explore the powerful intersections of music, resistance and gender, bringing together leading voices from across Australia’s music and creative industries on 1 April 2026.
Held annually in honour of the late social justice advocate Molly Hadfield OAM (1922–2012), this free community event continues her legacy of championing equality, access and community empowerment. The 2026 event, presented by Darebin Arts, aligns with the International Women’s Day theme ‘Balancing the Scales’, reflecting on gender equity within creative and cultural spaces.
This year’s oration features guest speakers Candice Lorrae, Janelle Johnstone, and Marita Dyson, three respected music industry professionals whose practices span performance, event production, academia, broadcasting and community engagement. The evening will be emceed by writer, artist, consultant and curator Zena Zada Cumpston.
Together, the speakers will reflect on the role of music in social justice and resistance movements and consider how gender impacts the roles artists take on within that context. Following an oration by each guest speaker, there will be an opportunity for audience members to ask questions as a springboard to a relaxed, panel-style discussion.
Darebin Mayor Councillor Emily Dimitriadis said, “The Molly Hadfield Social Justice Oration is a unique and deeply appreciated event in Darebin’s calendar and I am proud to see it reach its 12th year in 2026."
"The legacy of Darebin local and staunch social justice advocate Molly Hadfield OAM continues to inspire so many in our community and beyond. Each year, as part of our International Women’s Day celebrations, we honour her extraordinary contributions with this vibrant community event where all are welcome. I greatly look forward to the 2026 Oration and to the insights our remarkable guest speakers will share this year.”
The event is free to attend and everyone is welcome. Join us at 6.30pm on Wednesday 1 April at Darebin Arts Centre, 401 Bell Street Preston.
Find out more and book your free tickets