Kate Ellis (Adelaide, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Employment Participation and Childcare) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Mr Speaker, on indulgence. I take this opportunity on behalf of the government to acknowledge that next week we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day and that there will be events taking place right around Australia—indeed, right around the world—to celebrate the achievements of women, the great advances that have been made, the heroes that have fought so hard, but also of course to look at the challenges which still exist. As members get out and celebrate this anniversary in their own communities, this is also a perfect opportunity for us as members of the House to think about how this parliament can continue to endeavour to progress the position of Australian women, and women right around the world.

Ms Julie Bishop (Curtin, Liberal Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Mr Speaker, on indulgence. I join with the government in congratulating UN Women and UN Women Australia on arranging a number of celebrations to mark the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day on 8 March. It is appropriate in a year that we have our first female Prime Minister that we should recognise the achievements of those women who came before us in the House and in the other chamber. Dame Enid Lyons, who was the first woman to hold cabinet rank; Dame Annabelle Rankin, the first woman to administer a government department; Margaret Guilfoyle, the first woman to hold a cabinet position as a minister; and Margaret Reid, the first woman to hold the position of President of the Senate. We on this side of the House are very proud of the achievements of coalition women. I take this opportunity to wish all those involved in International Women’s Day celebrations a most successful day, as we reflect on the achievements in all fields of women in Australia as well as internationally.