No More Empty Promises... 30 Actions to March Forward for ALL Women and Girls

Thirty years ago, 189 countries made the promise to commit to a world where every woman and girl could fulfill her potential. That promise was the UN Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action – a framework that would shape three decades of progress.

As we're about to celebrate International Women's Month and Women's History Month, we stand at a pivotal moment in time. It's been 30 years since that historic declaration, yet its 12 critical areas of concern remain largely unchanged in Australian workplaces.

The theme March Forward: For ALL Women and Girls isn't just a call to action - it's a human rights imperative.

• Women in Australia are still facing an 11.9% gender pay gap
• Women make up only 19.4% of CEOs, and
• Women in Australia are retiring with 25% less superannuation than men.

We can't wait another 30 years for more broken promises.

But knowing what to do, isn’t enough. Change starts with action - consistent, meaningful steps taken by all of us - employers, employees and leaders.

From boardrooms to break rooms across Australia:

Employers are seeking clarity:

• How can we move beyond symbolic gestures to create lasting impact?
• What does a truly inclusive and intersectional gender action plan look like?
• Where should we focus our resources for maximum effect?

Leaders are stepping up:

• What does an effective champion for gender equality look like?
• How can we translate good intentions into tangible outcomes?
• Which actions will create the most significant positive impact?

Individuals are ready to contribute:

• What role can I play in advancing equality?
• How can I deepen my understanding and impact?
• Where can I make a difference?

In recognition of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, UN Women Australia have compiled a list of 30 high-impact actions you can take. These aren't theoretical suggestions; they're practical, proven steps that Australian workplaces can implement immediately, structured around critical areas of concern, including:

• Implementing transparent pay practices
• Transforming hybrid working
• Reviewing parental leave
• Addressing workplace harassment
• Practicing inclusive leadership
• Supporting work-life wellbeing
• Addressing AI bias
• Speaking up, speaking out
• Expanding your understanding
• Being an active ally

Making International Women’s Month Count

As we mark Beijing+30, we have both an opportunity for and an obligation to all women.

The actions outlined in our 30 Actions for Beijing+30 comprehensive guide provide a roadmap for meaningful change.

This International Women’s Month, we're inviting Australian workplaces to join us in driving action for gender equality.

By investing in UN Women Australia’s IWD@Work program, organisations don't just get tips and tricks - they get a partner in creating lasting change. They join a community of forward-thinking workplaces committed to moving beyond conversations to action.

IWD@Work offers:

• Our full resource with structured guidance for implementing the 30 Actions for Beijing+30
• Access to expert speakers and facilitators
• Tools for measuring and tracking progress
• Opportunities for cross-organisation learning and collaboration
• Resources for sustained engagement beyond March

Together, we can ensure that the next 30 years deliver on the promise of the UN’s Beijing Declaration - for ALL women and girls.

Will you March Forward with us?

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Learn more about IWD@Work, our International Women’s Day events, and UN Women Australia’s advocacy efforts across Australia.

#MarchForward #Beijing30