Wellington Shire celebrates International Women’s Day 2025

Wellington Shire Council is proud to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March 2025, recognising the invaluable contributions of women and girls across the region and reaffirming its commitment to gender equality.

The 2025 global theme, "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment", highlights the importance of creating a more inclusive and equitable world, ensuring that every woman-regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to thrive.

Wellington Shire Council Deputy Mayor, Councillor Cindy Madeley said IWD is a time to reflect on the progress made, while also acknowledging the work still to be done.

“Women and girls in Wellington Shire make an enormous impact in our workplaces, our communities, and our families. International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and to commit to breaking down barriers that still exist,” Cr Madeley said.

“Council is dedicated to supporting gender equity through initiatives that empower women in leadership, create safe and inclusive spaces, and promote equal opportunities for all.”

Some of the progress made in advancing gender equality at Council, include the adoption of the Fair Access Policy in 2024- the first of its kind in Gippsland. This Fair Access policy aims to remove barriers that women and girls face in accessing and using community and sporting infrastructure.

During the 2021-2023 reporting period, Council completed three Gender Impact Assessments, each of which led to positive changes for gender equality. As part of Councils current Gender Equality Action Plan, initiatives such as the introduction of superannuation payments on parental leave and the continued promotion of workplace flexibility, allowing eligible staff to work from home up to eight days per month, were implemented. Since then, Council has built on this progress, with 10 additional Gender Impact Assessments currently in progress across various projects, further strengthening our commitment to workplace equity and gender equality.

Wellington Shire Council will mark IWD 2025 by supporting a range of community events and initiatives, including networking gatherings, community workshops, a The Great Fashion Fix, a clothes swap happening on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 March at the Port of Sale’s Wellington Centre from 12-3pm as well as fundraising efforts supporting women in need.

“We know that true equality comes from action, not just words. That’s why Council continues to support programs that encourage women’s participation in local leadership, business, and sport, and we will keep advocating for policies that support gender equity,” Cr Madeley said.

Residents are encouraged to take part in International Women’s Day events happening across Wellington Shire, including a high tea fundraiser for Share the Dignity proudly supported by The Middle of Everywhere at the Criterion Hotel in Sale, the community clothes swap and an art workshop hosted by the Gippsland Art Gallery.  

For more information on local IWD events, visit www.themiddleofeverywhere.com.au or follow Wellington Shire Council on social media.

‍