The ACT Government has marked its first year since the 2024 election with a self-assessment of “progress for women”, claiming major gains in equality and inclusion — but the Canberra Liberals say the review ignores deeper structural issues.
Minister for women Dr Marisa Paterson MLA said women’s economic participation, health, safety, and community wellbeing had improved, due to centring them in policy and budget conversations.
“When equality is embedded in decision-making, the outcomes speak for themselves. The ACT Government is committed to building a Canberra where women, girls and gender diverse people can thrive in the workplace, in their communities, and in every aspect of life.”
The ACT Public Service had achieved gender parity, and the gender pay gap was reversed to 0.3 percent in favour of women.
Other initiatives included free period products in schools and public facilities; expanded pharmacy services for urinary tract infections and contraceptives; more than $30 million to prevent domestic and sexual violence; gender-sensitive upgrades at shopping centres; trauma-informed maternity and perinatal mental health services, supported by $5.5 million to refurbish hospital obstetric operating theatres and by expanded staffing in maternity and neonatal units.
The government also sought to boost women’s participation in trades and sport: it extended the Try-a-Trade program to more schools, funded mentoring through Fearless Women, and invested in the UC Capitals, female coaching programs, and new change rooms at sportsgrounds.
Women’s facilities at the Alexander Maconochie Centre were upgraded, and new protocols introduced to prevent sexual coercion and violence. Broader health measures included free abortions, and breast and cervical screenings.
“Real progress happens when government action reflects the lived experiences of women, girls and gender diverse people,” Dr Paterson said.
“We are proud of what we’ve achieved in just one year, but we know there is more to do. Looking ahead, we’ll be developing a new plan for gender equity to ensure Canberra is a place where every person feels safe, supported and empowered.
“The ACT Government is proud of the progress made in the past year and remains focused on building a Canberra where all women can thrive economically, socially and in every aspect of their lives.”
But Canberra Liberals MLA Chiaka Barry, shadow minister for women’s affairs, said: “Labor have conveniently glossed over issues such as insecure work, housing inequality, lack of affordable and accessible early education options, and underfunded community services that provides crisis support to women and children.
“This approach by Labor, continues to entrench generational inequality and disadvantage.
“True gender equity demands structural reform, not self-congratulatory press releases.”
