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UN Women - logoUN Women Australia has officially announced that Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, will headline the highly anticipated International Women’s Day (IWD) event on March 7, 2025. As the Patron of UN Women Australia, the Governor-General is set to deliver a powerful address at the event, which marks a significant milestone: the 30th anniversary of the UN Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—a landmark global commitment to gender equality.

A Critical Moment for Gender Equality in Australia

The announcement comes at a pivotal time for Australia, where gender disparities persist despite years of progress. Women remain vastly underrepresented in leadership positions, with only 9% of ASX300 CEOs being women. The national gender pay gap and the urgent crisis of violence against women further underscore the need for continued advocacy and action.

Simone Clarke, CEO of UN Women Australia, emphasized the significance of the event, stating:

“This is more than an event—it’s a national conversation about the future of gender equality in Australia. We are delighted that the Governor-General, as Patron of UN Women Australia, will be part of this important dialogue.”

Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland.

Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland.

Mary Robinson Joins Virtually for a Global Perspective

Adding further weight to the event, Mary Robinson, the former President of Ireland and a renowned global human rights advocate, will participate in a unique virtual discussion. As Ireland’s first female president and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Robinson has played a transformational role in championing women’s rights, climate justice, and global peace.

Her virtual presence at the event reflects the interconnected nature of gender equality efforts worldwide and the need for cross-border collaboration in advancing women’s rights.

Comedy Meets Social Commentary: Celeste Barber Takes the Stage

In a bold and refreshing addition to the program, comedian and social media powerhouse Celeste Barber will take the stage, bringing her signature wit and sharp social commentary to the day’s discussions.

Comedian Celeste Barber will deliver a keynote address live from Sydney.

Comedian Celeste Barber will deliver a keynote address live from Sydney.

Barber, best known for her #CelesteChallengeAccepted campaign, has captivated audiences worldwide with her parodies of unrealistic beauty standards and celebrity culture. Her presence at IWD 2025 promises to add humour, authenticity, and an unfiltered perspective on the realities women face today.

“March Forward: For ALL Women and Girls” – A Call to Action

The theme of IWD 2025, “March Forward: For ALL Women and Girls,” underscores the importance of translating promises into tangible progress. The event, one of Australia’s largest International Women’s Day gatherings, is a powerful platform to drive national conversations, challenge systemic barriers, and raise critical funds for initiatives supporting women and girls globally.

With a distinguished lineup of speakers, changemakers, and thought leaders, the event is expected to spark momentum for concrete policy changes, corporate commitments, and community-driven initiatives.

How to Attend

The March 7, 2025, event is now open for registrations, with individual tickets and IWD@Work packages available for businesses. These workplace packages provide a unique opportunity for companies to actively participate in IWD celebrations and advance their gender equality initiatives.

For more information and to secure tickets, visit iwd.net.au.


About UN Women Australia

UN Women Australia is a leading non-profit dedicated to achieving gender equality and empowering women globally. Operating in over 100 countries, UN Women runs transformational programs that provide women and girls access to technology, leadership training, education, and safe spaces—enabling them to shape a better, more inclusive future.

About Beijing+30

The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted in 1995, remains the most ambitious global roadmap for advancing women’s rights. Covering 12 critical areas—including economic empowerment, political participation, media representation, and climate action—it continues to serve as a blueprint for achieving gender equity worldwide.

📖 Read more about the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: ➡️ UN Women Official Report.

 

 

 

Written by: Sandra Jones

 

 

 

 

 

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