As we celebrate 175 years as Australia’s first university, this International Women’s Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable women who have shaped the University of Sydney and beyond.
From pioneering scholars and influential artists to Indigenous leaders and elite athletes, their contributions have made a lasting impact.
These are just a few of the many women whose ongoing work continues to drive everyone forward, shaping a better future for all.
Please note: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices or names of deceased persons in photographs, film, audio recordings or printed material.
Iza Coghlan, the first female medicine graduate in NSW
Dr Iza Frances Josephine Coghlan was a woman ahead of her time. In 1887, she entered the University of Sydney as the only woman in her medical cohort. A decade later, she graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Master of Surgery, becoming one of the first female medical graduates in New South Wales.
Iza was also a co-founder of the NSW Medical Women’s Society, advocating for greater recognition and opportunities for women in the field.
Louisa Macdonald, first principal of The Women's College
Louisa Macdonald was a transformative force in women's education and the fight for equal access to university. After earning first-class honours at the University of London, she became the first principal of the Women’s College at the University of Sydney in 1892.
At a time when few women had the opportunity to pursue higher education, she built the college into a thriving institution, ensuring they could live, study, and graduate from the University.
Elsie Dalyell, the legacy of the Dalyell Scholars stream
Dr Elsie Jean Dalyell, a resident of The Women’s College and high-achieving medical graduate, was monumental to public health. She had a far-reaching impact, including her investigations into rickets and childhood malnutrition in Vienna, her work treating infectious diseases during World War I, her research on tuberculosis in Australia, and her role as a Commonwealth Medical Officer, improving public health policies.
Her legacy continues through the University’s Dalyell Scholars program, which continues to foster academic excellence for students today.
Ruby Payne-Scott, a leader in radio astronomy
On top of graduating with first-class honours in mathematics and physics from the University in the 1930s, Ruby Violet Payne-Scott was a pioneer in radio physics and is believed to have been the first female radio astronomer.
After World War II, her research helped establish Australia as a leader in the field and laid the foundation for modern interferometry, a technique essential to contemporary radio astronomy.
Ann Curthoys, a historical Freedom Rider
Professor Ann Curthoys enrolled at the University in the 1960s with a passion for learning—and left with a lifelong commitment to history and activism. A historian, academic, and advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights, she was part of the 1965 Freedom Ride, a defining moment in the fight against Indigenous discrimination in Australia.
She continues to contribute to the academic community as an active researcher, writer and supervisor of graduate students at the University of Sydney.
Sister Alison Bush, one of NSW’s longest serving midwives
Sister Alison Bush dedicated over 40 years to women’s health, providing care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and delivering over 1,000 children during her lifespan.
In 1969, she became the first Aboriginal midwife to work at the Royal Prince Alfred, a University of Sydney teaching hospital. She was also instrumental in connecting the Women’s Health Service with Aboriginal health initiatives and devoted her life to improving the pregnancy and childcare experiences for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people women.
Kerry Chikarovski, a force for women in politics
Kerry Chikarovski AM was always one step ahead, beginning her leadership journey at the University as the first female president of the Law Society in the 1970s. As a former Member of the NSW Legislative Assembly, she pushed for policies that strengthened women's rights, advanced gender equality, and introduced family-friendly workplace reforms.
Her impact extends beyond politics, driving lasting change in workplace flexibility and representation. Today, she continues to advocate for women while advising organisations and serving on various boards.
Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO, a transformative voice in opera and beyond
Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO, a Yorta Yorta soprano and composer, is a powerful advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation in the arts. She returned to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music in 2023 as the inaugural Elizabeth Todd Chair of Vocal Studies, 37 years after her graduation in 1986.
Deborah founded Short Black Opera, Australia’s first Indigenous opera company, and has dedicated her career to amplifying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ voices in the arts and beyond.
Angie Ballard, eight-time Paralympic medallist
Angela Ballard has built an outstanding career in wheelchair racing, representing Australia across seven Paralympic Games. She has also been a strong spokesperson for disability inclusion in sport, serving on the board of Wheelchair Sports NSW and working with various organisations to promote accessibility.
Her connection to the University has been a defining part of her journey. She held a sports scholarship while studying psychology and was recognised with an Alumni Award in 2014 for her achievements in both athletics and advocacy.
Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australia's first female astronaut
A woman truly reaching for the stars, alumna Katherine Bennell-Pegg made history as Australia's first female astronaut in 2024 when she graduated from the European Space Agency's astronaut training program.
Katherine has led groundbreaking space projects, from human spaceflight missions to Earth observation initiatives, and continues to open new doors for future explorers.
Georgina Long AO, Australian of the Year
Professor Georgina Long AO, co-medical director of Melanoma Institute Australia and a University of Sydney alumna, has changed the landscape of melanoma treatment, making what was once a fatal diagnosis curable for many.
Jointly named Australian of the Year in 2024, her groundbreaking work in melanoma research and treatments continue to save lives and shape the future of oncology,
Header image: Courtesy of the University of Sydney Archives REF-00053263 ‘Five Women Arts Graduates Including Katherine Windeyer Gale’
