Australia has appointed Michelle O’Byrne as its next Ambassador for Gender Equality, a role that will carry forward the country’s commitment to advancing the rights of women and girls both at home and across the Indo-Pacific.
The appointment was announced by Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Minister for Women Katy Gallagher, who highlighted O’Byrne’s long record of advocacy and political leadership.
O’Byrne has served as the Member for Bass in the Tasmanian House of Assembly since 2006, following an earlier stint as the Federal Member for Bass between 1998 and 2004. Her ministerial portfolios in Tasmania have included women and the prevention of family violence, education, workplace relations, emergency services, communities, and economic development.
Her work has left a distinct mark on women’s rights in Tasmania, from pushing through the decriminalisation of abortion to establishing safe access zones around clinics and driving reforms aimed at tackling family violence.
Senator Wong said O’Byrne’s background makes her well placed to take up the ambassadorial post. “Michelle O’Byrne’s lifetime of advocacy for women’s rights and her experience driving progressive reform means she will be a powerful voice for gender equality in our region and around the world,” she said.
The Foreign Minister stressed the broader global value of equality. “Gender equality is as a stronger predictor of peace than a nation’s wealth or political system and we know that peace agreements are more likely to last when women can participate in them. That’s why advancing gender equality is critical to Australia’s work to promote peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.”
Senator Gallagher said the appointment aligns with the government’s broader agenda. “The Albanese Government is building a stronger, fairer Australia – where women and girls can live free from violence and reach their full potential,” she said. “We are working to close the gender pay gap, boost women’s workforce participation, and ensure equal opportunities in leadership and decision-making. We look forward to Michelle building on her record of delivering for women and girls in her new role as Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality.”
The government also paid tribute to outgoing Ambassador Stephanie Copus Campbell AM, who has served in the position since 2023.
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