WOMEN HOLD UP HALF THE SKY AWARD

The Hon. J.M. GAZZOLA (15:08): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for the Status of Women a question about the South Australian Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.M. GAZZOLA: As the minister has informed this place before, an outstanding woman who has made a great contribution to the community will be recognised for her efforts through the Australia Day Council of South Australia Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award. Will the minister tell us about this year's Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Public Sector Management, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister for Gambling) (15:09): As you may recall, the Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award is part of the Australia Day awards and honours and is jointly coordinated by the Office for Women and the Australia Day Council of South Australia. Members would know that I believe that these kinds of awards are very important because they ensure that the valued contribution that women make to our community does not go unnoticed.

The Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award recognises a South Australian woman who acts as a role model and has inspired us through her accomplishments. This award is an excellent opportunity to celebrate these achievements.

In addition to serving as role models to all women in our community, celebrating outstanding women demonstrates the different ways that women contribute as leaders in our communities. Whether it be in the halls of parliament, as a member of local government, as a member of a board or as the person your family or community look up to, women can and do make a difference.

I am constantly amazed and humbled by the work that women are doing to ensure the safety and equal participation of women in our community. Yet, I am surprised that many of these women do not see themselves as being leaders or role models. All women can be the best at whatever they set their mind to and it is important that they are recognised for their achievements and contributions.

I am delighted today to announce that nominations for the 2012 Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award are now open. As members might recall, previous nominations were of an exceptionally high calibre so I am very much looking forward to seeing the outstanding women that this round, no doubt, will attract.

I have been advised that the Chair of the Australia Day Council of South Australia, Dr Tony Cocchiaro, says that last year the nominations received outnumbered nominations for any other award program that the council conducts, which is an excellent result, particularly for an award that was in its first year.

Last year's inaugural award was won by Pat Waria-Read for her role in advocating for the rights of Aboriginal women as well as the leadership she provides to others in her community. She is a Ngadjuri elder, a very proud one, and she was recognised for her role in the State Aboriginal Women's Gathering and National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women's Gathering, as well as her efforts in rehabilitation for Aboriginal offenders and prisoners.

Nominations for the Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award close at 5pm on 9 December. The award will be presented at a reception on the lawns of Government House on the eve of Australia Day 2012. I would be very pleased if members would consider nominating inspirational women for the award. If anyone would like information they can contact either the Australia Day Council of South Australia website or the Office for Women.