For many members of this place, the beginning of March means taking part in activities across our electorates to highlight the contributions of women as part of International Women's Day and Women's History Month. These occasions give us the opportunity not only to celebrate women's achievements, but also to reflect on the work still needed to achieve gender equality. The theme for International Women's Day 2025 is "Accelerate Action", which is a much-needed reminder that, while progress has been made, it is not happening fast enough. At the current rate, it will take until 2158 to achieve global gender equality—a staggering statistic that should serve as a call to action for us all. We acknowledge the need to move beyond words and take decisive steps to address the systemic barriers and biases that women continue to face at home, in workplaces and in every part of our society.
This year holds special significance for Liverpool as it marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Liverpool Women's Health Centre. Established in 1975, the centre was created as a feminist-based service to meet the needs of women in south-west Sydney. At the time, it was just the second women's health centre of its kind in New South Wales, providing medical care as well as a safe space for women to connect, speak openly, share their experiences and find support. The centre was founded by local women from Green Valley, working with women from the women's liberation movement. It made history as the first women's service to employ Aboriginal women and, over the years, it has led important conversations around domestic and family violence, sexual assault, health literacy and the health needs of incarcerated women. The centre has always prioritised local women, offering services and supports in additional languages and expanding services to meet the needs of our growing community.
This year, the Giving Voice exhibition was launched at Liverpool council's Yellamundie building. The exhibition documents the history of the centre and the feminist movement in Liverpool. I am so pleased that we had the Minister for Women present to mark this milestone. She took the time on the busiest day of her year to join us for the launch. As a former Liverpool local, the Minister understands just how important the centre is to our community. Of course, I had to invite Kate Meyer, the current executive officer of the women's health centre, to speak at my Liverpool International Women's Day morning tea. So many incredible women work tirelessly across our community, often without recognition. I saw the morning tea as a chance to come together, connect, and reflect on the work being done.
It was also the perfect opportunity to introduce Liverpool's Local Woman of the Year for 2025, Rowena Assaad. Rowena is a lifelong Liverpool local. She lives, works and breathes the 2168. That connection to our community shines through in everything she does, especially in her role with CORE Community Services. Through the 2168 Roundtable, which I established to bring local stakeholders together, I have seen Rowena's dedication firsthand. One of her standout achievements is the CORE mobile pantry—an initiative she thought of that delivers groceries directly to people in need across the 2168. It is a simple but powerful way to ensure that vulnerable members of our community do not fall through the cracks. I was proud to secure State Government funding to help realise the mobile pantry, but its success is truly a testament to Rowena's passion and determination. She has poured her heart into making sure that it not only exists but also thrives.
It was clear to me that there was simply no better choice for our Local Woman of the Year. Rowena exemplifies community spirit, leadership and care. She is someone who shows up, does the work and makes a real difference. Having Rowena's daughter join us at the morning tea was the icing on the cake—it was a beautiful reminder that the work we do today ripples through generations to follow. Rowena is not only making an impact in today's world; she is instilling incredible values in her children and others, teaching them the importance of community, compassion and service. In celebrating Rowena, we celebrate the countless women across Liverpool and beyond who work every day to build stronger, more connected communities. Their efforts may not always make headlines, but they change lives, and it means that people like me can say we truly stand on the shoulders of giants.
As we reflect on the call to accelerate action this International Women's Day, I hope we all remember the role we can play in creating a more equal future. By recognising, supporting and investing in women like Rowena—and in vital services like the Liverpool Women's Health Centre—we create lasting change. Equality is not just women's work, however; it benefits our whole community. I thank the House.
