More than $40,000 has been provided to 30 organisations and community groups across the Territory to assist in hosting International Women's Day events in March this year.
Marked annually on 8 March, International Women's Day recognises and celebrates the achievements of women around the globe.
The national theme for this year's International Women's Day is #ChoosetoChallenge, highlighting that we are all responsible for our own thoughts and actions, and challenging inequalities in our society.
Recognising the importance of this day, the Territory Labor Government has this month awarded the International Women's Day Grants to support events, activities, projects and celebrations throughout the Territory.
Grants of up to $3000 have been awarded to multiple groups including:
- Palmerston and Regional Basketball Association who will host a community gaming day on Thursday 11 March to celebrate women's diversity and social achievements. It will explore some of the current cultures in gaming and the effect it has on women.
- NT Women Lawyers Association will use their grant funding to support law students, in particular Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students attend legal seminars and networking events.
- Mabunji Aboriginal Resource Indigenous Corporation will host an annual dinner for local women to celebrate stories of success and challenges to bring awareness to gender inequality issues.
- Sri Lankan Australian Friendship Association will run a workshop which focuses on women's rights, strengths and the benefits they can bring to their community, through self-confidence.
The Territory Government acknowledges gender equality as fundamental to improving the lives of all Territorians. In 2020, the Northern Territory Government released the Gender Equality Statement of Commitment, and will be developing a Gender Equality Action Plan this year.
Quotes from the Minister for Women, Lauren Moss:
"The Territory Government recognises the importance of empowering Territory women and girls, not only on International Women's Day, but every day of the year.
"It is inspiring to see so many fantastic events planned for International Women's Day to celebrate the achievements of females, and highlight the importance of strong women and their roles in our past, present and future.
"International Women's Day is an opportunity for us all to reflect on how far the women's movement has progressed and to contemplate what is needed for the future. The Territory Labor Government acknowledges gender equality as fundamental to improving the lives of all Territorians."
