Keypoints

International Women's Day is celebrated annually on 8 March.  To commemorate the Centenary of this special day, the theme for 2011 is International Women’s Day: Celebrating 100 Years.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a day to recognise and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women around the world. It is also a day to acknowledge that many women still disproportionately suffer the burden of discrimination and poverty simply because of their gender.

The Department of Premier and Cabinet supports International Women’s Day. To acknowledge and celebrate this important day, NSW Government Ministers, Local Members and members of the public have nominated women for the 2011 NSW Woman of the Year award. This award acknowledges the outstanding contributions of women in NSW and the dedication they have for their communities.  The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the Premier’s International Women’s Day Reception at Parliament House on 8 March 2011.

The Department also supports NSW local and shire councils to host events, such as exhibitions, speeches, breakfasts and awards presentations, allowing women to network and to be acknowledged by their peers at a local and community level.

UN Women (formerly known as UNIFEM) is holding its annual IWD fundraising breakfast at Darling Harbour on 4 March 2011.  This event attracts around 1,500 guests and raises funding to facilitate education, combat poverty and empower women both socially and economically.  For further information about UN Women and to purchase tickets for the fundraising breakfast please visit www.internationalwomensday.org.au

Agencies are urged to promote International Women’s Day in 2011 and to encourage staff to attend functions and celebrate the day.

Brendan O’Reilly
Director General