The Australian Government has announced the official delegation to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, being held in New York from 6 to 17 March.
The Commission is the principal global body dedicated to the advancement of women.
The delegation will be led by Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy on behalf of the Australian Government, with the Minister for Women Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher unable to attend due to parliamentary commitments.
Senator Gallagher said the Government is committed to Australia’s international leadership on gender equality.
“The exceptional women who will join Senator McCarthy in New York will represent Australia, showcase our efforts to address gender equality and gather best practice from across the globe.”
“We are proud to welcome two civil society delegates into the delegation. Including the voices of civil society is an important element of vibrant and accountable democracies.”
Senator McCarthy said the official delegation demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring all perspectives are heard in key decision-making forums, including the ideas of First Nations women.
“Our delegation represents women from all over Australia, on the world stage. We can only progress gender equality when we empower and amplify the ideas and experiences of women from all backgrounds and cultures.”
“This strong group of women are serious about achieving gender equality. We are excited to work with our international partners and create long-lasting change for women and girls.
“I am looking forward to sharing the invaluable ideas of Australian women I’ve been speaking to from the cities, regions and the bush.”
The priority theme for CSW this year is innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for women and girls.
Australia’s official delegation:
- Senator The Hon Malarndirri McCarthy
- Stephanie Copus-Campbell, Ambassador for Gender Equality
- Kate Jenkins, Sex Discrimination Commissioner
- Julie Inman Grant, eSafety Commissioner
- June Oscar AO, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner
- Mary Wooldridge, Director, Workplace Gender Equality Agency
- Chantelle Stratford, Head of Office for Women
- Hannah Robertson, Civil Society delegate, Equality Rights Alliance/National Women’s Safety Alliance
- Kaylee Anderson, Civil Society delegate, National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Alliance