Zonta Australia launches to amplify advocacy efforts for women and girls

Zonta Australia had been a concept in discussion for many biennia across the Australian districts. With Zonta International’s strategic focus shifting strongly towards advocacy, the urgency to establish a Zonta Australia framework grew, essential for positioning Zonta in Australia for the future.

The Zonta International Convention in Brisbane this year provided the perfect backdrop to finalize years of planning. At the Convention, the creation of Zonta Australia was officially launched by outgoing International President Ute Scholtz and incoming International President Salla Touminen.

Following the launch, the Zonta Australia committee held its inaugural meeting on 8 August, where the Terms of Reference were endorsed and an executive elected. Sandra McLean (Brisbane) was appointed Secretary and Bridget Mather (Adelaide) as Committee Chair. Each district will have two representatives on the committee, with the Governor as an ex-officio member. The current committee consists of:

• D22: Sandra McLean (Brisbane); Nyree Johnson (Rockhampton); DG Petra Ladwig (e-Club of Queensland)
• D23: Dr. Lesley Hills Siegloff (Adelaide Flinders); Bridget Mather (Adelaide); DG Debbie Schmidt (Geelong)
• D24: Dr. Janette Curtis (Wollongong); Jill Davis (Central Coast); DG Bernie Guy (e-Club NSW/ACT)

Representing approximately 102 clubs and 2,273 members, Zonta Australia provides a unified voice on issues of national importance impacting women and girls. Its focus is direct advocacy, including policy submissions and feedback on existing or proposed legislation to the Federal Government through relevant Ministers and Departments. It will strengthen partnerships with organizations like UN Women Australia, the National Women’s Alliance groups, and the National Council of Women to amplify advocacy on issues affecting women and girls. Upcoming meetings, such as the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) on Beijing+30, will further provide platforms for Zonta Australia’s voice.

In the coming months, practical efforts will focus on setting up a Zonta Australia website. Since the initial meeting on Aug. 8, the committee has already engaged in advocacy with the Federal Government on two key issues: the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and menstrual product access for women, as well as a letter of support for the Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Commission’s first report to Parliament—Zonta Australia is officially up and running!

For inquiries, contact: [email protected].

29 October 2024