Women advocating for workers’ rights, championing health, and breaking new ground in religious and community leadership are among the 24 remarkable women inducted into the 2025 Victorian Honour Roll of Women, supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Women, Natalie Hutchins, announced the new inductees at a ceremony at Arts Centre Melbourne last night.
The Honour Roll celebrates Victorian women whose leadership and achievements have made a lasting impact on the community. It was established by the late Hon Joan Kirner AC, Victoria’s first female Premier, to formally acknowledge women’s contributions and inspire future generations to follow their example.
This year’s inductees include:
-
The Honourable Jennifer Coate AO, Victoria’s first female Children’s Court President and first female State Coroner, and one of only two women on the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
-
Professor Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Chair of Respect Victoria, whose research on family violence has influenced paid family and domestic violence leave legislation.
-
Caterina Cinanni, a workers’ rights advocate who has helped empower vulnerable migrant farm workers, leading to stronger visa protections, minimum wage reforms, and national legislation addressing modern slavery.
By highlighting these women’s achievements, the Labor Government says it is continuing to build a more gender-equal Victoria.
Hutchins said, “The Honour Roll is proof that leadership takes many forms – from the classroom to the courtroom, from healthcare to community organising. It’s hard to be what you can’t see.
“Every one of these women has made Victoria a better, fairer place. They’ve changed lives, inspired others and strengthened our state in ways that will last for generations.
Since its inception in 2001, more than 770 women have been inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll. The full list of 2025 inductees is available at vic.gov.au/victorian-honour-roll-of-women-inductees.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
