International Women’s Day 2023

Today is International Women’s Day – a day to celebrate the achievements of women and give special thanks to those who have supported and served our country. This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity, and in the spirit of shining a spotlight on women, here are some interesting statistics about women and their service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Did you know that in the 2021 Census, it was reported women make up 21 per cent of current serving ADF members? This is a 5 per cent increase from figures in 2017 (according to the Women in the ADF Report 2020-2021). Australia is among the international leaders in North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) member and partner nations, ranking third in 2018 women in Defence workforce. Importantly, it is reported that Army and Air Force have achieved their 2025 participation targets of 15 per cent and 25 per cent respectively. Navy is very close to achieving their target which is 25 per cent by 2025, sitting at 23.49 per cent as at the end of June 2022.

With equity targets for women in the ADF being met or exceeded in most cases, it is important that we recognise the work and accomplishments of the women in our ADF on days like today. To all the women who have served and those that are continuing to serve, thank you for your service.