I think we should all reflect on the women we have in our lives that make us all better
As a son, a husband and a father of girls, I am grateful for the women in my life.
A mother, who brought me into this world and raised me.
A beautiful wife of 25 years, who is my encourager, friend and confidant.
And two beautiful daughters, who are my joy and delight.
On International Women’s Day, I think we should all reflect on the women we have in our lives that make us all better.
The battle for women’s rights has come a long way in the last century. From winning the right to vote in NSW in 1902, and to stand in Parliament in 1918, to re-entering the workforce in record numbers.
But we still have a long way to go to achieve equality for women in NSW according to the 2018 Annual Report by Women in NSW.
- 1 in 4 seats in NSW Parliament are held by women.
- At the age of 55 years or over, women have significantly lower superannuation balance than men.
- Of those working full time, women earned $241.90 less a week than men.
- Women make up the majority of domestic and family violence victims in NSW.
- And were hospitalised 5.7 times more than men due to violence by a spouse or partner.
We need more shelters for women and their families, to find a safe place when facing abuse and violence. We need more affordable housing to help women transition and rebuild to a secure and independent life.
We have all benefited from the lives of women, and it is a worthy cause to ensure that the majority of our population get the equality they deserve.