[Sydney, 1 October 2024] – UN Women Australia unveils 'March Forward' as the official theme for International Women's Day (IWD) 2025, commemorating 30 years since the United Nation's Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action for gender equality.
Since 1995, women have broken barriers, reshaped policies, and ignited powerful movements worldwide. But despite these advances, millions of women and girls still face systemic inequalities, rising violence, and economic disparities that hold them back from reaching their full potential.
Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher, said, "Australia is committed to leading the charge on gender equality. As our Beijing+30 Gender Equality Report to the United Nations shows, we have made significant strides, but there is still much work ahead to close the gender pay gap, ensure women's safety, and fairly value both paid and unpaid care work."
"The theme 'March Forward' reminds us that progress is not just about reflection but about taking decisive, bold steps to turn our commitments into action. This is our moment to drive change and ensure a truly equal future for all women and girls," she continued.
The Hon Dr Carmen Lawrence AO, who was Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Status of Women in 1995, reflected on the progress since Beijing, "The Beijing Declaration was a watershed moment for women's rights globally, but our work is far from finished. As we 'March Forward', we must redouble our efforts to dismantle the persistent barriers to gender equality."
On Friday, 7 March 2025, UN Women Australia will host its signature IWD events in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, and online. These events are the largest IWD celebrations in Australia, bringing together thought leaders, change-makers, and advocates.
Simone Clarke, CEO of UN Women Australia, stated "Our 2025 events will serve as a powerful platform to amplify voices, share insights, and mobilise action," added Clarke. "We invite all Australians to join us in this crucial conversation and 'March Forward' toward a more equitable world."
