Ambassador for Gender Equality

Today we announce the appointment of the Honourable Michelle O’Byrne as Australia’s next Ambassador for Gender Equality.

Australia is committed to advancing gender equality and the rights of women and girls at home and internationally.

The Ambassador will help drive Australia’s efforts to end gender-based violence, promote economic equality and inclusive trade, support women’s participation in climate and humanitarian action, and champion women’s leadership across the Indo-Pacific.

Michelle O’Byrne has worked throughout her life to advance women’s rights and gender equality, serving as the Member for Bass in the Tasmanian House of Assembly from 2006 to 2025 and as the Federal Member for Bass from 1998 to 2004.

Her ministerial portfolios have spanned women and the prevention of family violence, education, workplace relations, emergency services, communities and economic development.

Her advocacy has led to the decriminalisation of abortion in Tasmania, the establishment of safe access zones around abortion clinics and reforms to address family violence.

We thank former Ambassador Stephanie Copus Campbell AM for her contribution to progressing Australia’s gender equality priorities since 2023.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong:

"Michelle O’Byrne’s lifetime of advocacy for women’s rights and her experiencing driving progressive reform means she will be a powerful voice for gender equality in our region and around the world.

"Gender equality is as a stronger predictor of peace than a nation’s wealth or political system and we know that peace agreements are more likely to last when women can participate in them.

"That’s why advancing gender equality is critical to Australia’s work to promote peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific."

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Katy Gallagher:

"The Albanese Government is building a stronger, fairer Australia – where women and girls can live free from violence and reach their full potential.

"We are working to close the gender pay gap, boost women’s workforce participation, and ensure equal opportunities in leadership and decision-making.

"We look forward to Michelle building on her record of delivering for women and girls in her new role as Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality."