IAASysters
Supporting women in the internet industry
The IAASysters program started in 2021 after years of noticing consistently low participation rates of women in our industry, and we wanted to do something about it! Now heading into its sixth successful year, we’re hosting IAASysters Workshops in Australia and New Zealand, once again, in 2026.
Inspired by the international systers.org and systers@ietf initiatives, the IAASysters program was created to encourage and support ALL women and gender diverse people working in the internet industry.
We achieve this by offering ten sponsored attendees the opportunity to participate in our IAASysters Workshops – these one-day workshops provides expert career advice and help build important soft skills that support career advancement. Systers then attend a technical conference where they will receive in-depth training and networking opportunities.
Find out more about applying and sponsoring our Workshops below!
IAASysters Workshop for 2026 - registrations now open!
IAASysters 2026
We will, once again, be hosting the day before the AusNOG conference, in September 2026. The IAASysters Workshop includes sessions designed to help attendees plan their future careers and develop critical soft skills that will help them achieve their goals.
2026 Program details:
- IAASysters Workshop – Details TBC
- AusNOG Conference – Details TBC
Applications for IAASysters 2026 are now open!
Participate in the program
Please ensure that you/your nominee meet the eligibility criteria below before submitting:
- Must be employed or working towards a career in the internet industry*
- Have a passion for the internet and the internet industry
- Reside within Australia
As part of the application process, we require an overview of your current role and a summary of your career aspirations and/or relevant training. Applications must include a statement of endorsement from either a direct supervisor or mentor; in the case of nominations, the nominator’s endorsement statement will be accepted.
Applications demonstrating the most potential for personal growth and passion for the internet are rated highest.
Whether you are an aspiring student, intern, re-entering the workforce after a break or have been in your role for some time, it’s your passion for the internet and the internet industry that really counts.
*Applications are open from women working in ALL types of job roles within the internet industry (network operations, engineering, IT, marketing, regulation, customer support or those studying towards a relevant degree or diploma).
Applications close Friday, 24 April 2026, at 5:00pm AEST.
Sponsoring the program
If your organisation would also like to make a difference for women in the internet industry, we have sponsorship opportunities available. All the information you need to know is in the prospectus, or alternatively, you can contact us directly to discuss these options at events@internet.asn.au.
If you are ready to sponsor, please complete our Intent to Sponsor form.
Program information
The IAASysters Workshop includes sessions designed to help attendees plan their future careers and develop critical soft skills that will help them achieve their goals.
Successful sponsored attendees will receive:
- Ticket to attend the IAASysters Workshop
- Ticket to attend a technical conference
- Economy airfares and accommodation (if required)
- One-year complimentary Professional Membership to IAA
Below is an example of the Workshop timetable as a guide:
Industry Event
Attendance at a technical conference is a vital part of this program as it enables women to network with prominent industry figures and learns and develop technical knowledge and expertise.
IAASysters NZ
Building on the success of our Australian program, IAASysters expanded across the Tasman in 2025 with the launch of our first New Zealand Workshop, proudly supported by NZNOG. The momentum and enthusiasm from the Aotearoa community has been incredible, and we’re thrilled to be returning in 2026. IAASysters NZ continues the mission of supporting women and gender diverse people in tech, offering the same inspiring workshops, networking, and career-building opportunities tailored to the local industry landscape.
IAASysters sponsors
IAASysters NZ sponsors
