Media Release by The Hon Tanya Pibersek MP

159 Women recognised in Queens Birthday 2010 Honours List

Minister for the Status of Women, Tanya Plibersek, today congratulated the 159 women recognised in the Queen’s Birthday 2010 Honours List.

“I congratulate the many talented and dedicated women who have been recognised this year in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for their remarkable achievements,” Ms Plibersek said.

“I am delighted to see these women being acknowledged for the contributions they have made across many important areas such as medicine, community health and social work, research, science, higher education, and public administration.

“Among some of these worthy recipients are Doctor Jean Rosa Edwards, recognised for her contribution to medicine, particularly through supporting victims of sexual assault; Professor Barbara Pocock, recognised for service to industrial relations as an academic and researcher, particularly in the areas of employment, gender relations, vocational education and social justice; and, Vanessa Swan, Member of the Government’s Violence against Women Advisory Group, awarded a Public Service Medal for services to victims of sexual assault.

“It is important that we as a society continue to work together to promote a culture that supports and encourages women to excel in all fields.

“Today’s honours list shows us how much we stand to gain from the talent, dedication and commitment they pour into their endeavours.

“I am pleased that thirty four per cent of those on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List are women, a five per cent increase on the number of women included in the Australia Day Honours.

“I encourage everyone to consider nominating a woman they know and admire, and who has made outstanding contributions to the wellbeing of others, for public recognition in the future.”