It is my privilege to submit Australia's combined 6th and 7th report to the United Nations on the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).
The Australian Government is committed to supporting women and men to participate equally in paid work, family and community life.
The Government wants to maximise opportunities for women so that they can participate fully in building an inclusive, safe, fair and unified Australia.
It is important that Australian women be economically secure over the course of their lives. Creating a more balanced workplace relations system, improving pay equity and providing more accessible and better quality child care will help Australian mothers and their families achieve greater financial security and independence.
Promoting a zero tolerance attitude to violence against women and developing Australia's first ever National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and their Children represent a renewed and determined effort to tackle this important issue.
Twenty-five years after Australia's accession to CEDAW, the Australian Government and the state and territory governments are proud of the nation's record on women's issues. We acknowledge, however, that there are ongoing challenges regarding the full implementation of CEDAW, including meeting the challenges faced by Indigenous women and girls.
Gender inequality remains in some areas, limiting women's choices and opportunities.
Australia has nearly completed the process necessary for our accession to the CEDAW Optional Protocol.
In partnership with local, state and territory governments, the private sector and communities, the Australian Government will continue to work towards the elimination of discrimination against all Australian women. The Government is determined that Australia should once again lead with innovation and excellence in protecting and promoting women's human rights.
The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP
Minister for the Status of Women