Governor-General, I have the privilege of meeting Australian women

On this International Women's Day, I find myself grounded in realism, yet filled with optimism and hope.

As your Governor-General, I have the privilege of meeting Australian women who transform promises into tangible progress daily, without faltering.

In every sector, whether as mentors and pioneers, farmers and athletes, scientists and military personnel, advocates and policymakers, speakers and intellectuals, writers and artists, I witness women advancing collectively towards equality.

I also reflect on the numerous women who play crucial roles in the response to Cyclone Alfred, as they have consistently done during times of natural disaster. Alongside their male counterparts, women serve as mayors and local leaders, volunteers in the SES and RFS, members of the Red Cross and St John's Ambulance, and women in agriculture who will rebuild after calamities. Additionally, women in our modern and diverse Australian Defence Force, including my aide-de-camp Captain Katie Higgins, who has led troops in recovery operations throughout her career as a member of the Engineering Corps in the Australian Army, exemplify this commitment.

Today, as Patron of @unwomenaust, I had the pleasure of joining over 1,700 individuals for #IWD2025 in Sydney. Together, we honored those who have paved the way and reaffirmed our dedication to channeling our energy, passion, creativity, and optimism towards fostering a better, more equitable Australia.

I extend my gratitude to the extraordinary @celestebarber for utilizing your humor to engage audiences and promote vital discussions on gender equality.

I also wish to thank UN Women Australia CEO Simone Clarke, Councillor Yvonne Weldon AM, MC Mel McLaughlin, and all attendees for their continued inspiration and commitment to driving change.