This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Australian honours and awards system, which includes the Order of Australia, the Australian Bravery Decorations and the National Medal.

Founded on 14 February 1975, the honours and awards system was established to recognise the exceptional service and significant achievements of Australians from all walks of life.

Recipients of Australian honours and awards celebrated the milestone with Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, at Government House in Canberra.

Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher, Minister for Women, has submitted Australia’s ninth periodic report to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women.

As a party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, Australia has an obligation to periodically report on its progress toward improving the lives of women and girls in Australia.

The report reflects measures taken in the past 4 years across areas including gender-based violence, education, employment, access to justice, First Nations, and health.

Home energy upgrades can help households reduce their energy bills and Australia’s carbon emissions. However, it’s not always easy for homeowners to identify the most suitable and cost-effective upgrade option, and this can lead to inaction.

BETA partnered with the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) to design and test interventions which empower homeowners to take action to upgrade their home’s energy performance.

A $5 million Research Partnership grant – part of the Working for Women Program – has been awarded to the University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Gender Equality and Inclusion @ W

Congratulations to the recipients in the Australia Day 2025 Honours List, who were announced today by the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC.

The achievements of 732 Australians – across community service, science and research, industry, sport, the arts and more – were recognised in the Honours List, and includes:

Each year, the Office for Women reports annually on the representation of women on Australian Government Boards.

Record results have been achieved in 2023-24. Data is presented at Australian Government, portfolio, and individual board levels, and performance is measured against 2 key targets: