The year was 2012. A young Benita Kolovos arrives at her high school literature class to find a print-out on her desk. It’s the Julia Gillard misogyny speech. 

When it comes to riveting moments in Australian media, Gillard’s speech has few peers. It was raw, honest, and reached millions of Australian women who were fed up with double standards in the workplace, and in life. 

But one speech can’t fix everything. Year after year, when International Women’s Day rolls around, we have a special opportunity to reflect on where we are and how far we’ve come in the last twelve months.

Inspired by the power of Gillard’s speech, Benita pursued politics in journalism. At the same time, Maddy Harradence, a Registered Nurse, started a long meaningful career in her union, and Rebecca Thistleton forged a path in policy and media. 

These three visionary women come together for our annual 2025 IWD episode for a wide ranging conversation on politics, health, media, and sport. Women’s issues impact everyone - this is not one to miss. 

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Open
01:58 Introduction
07:38 Women in Politics
10:36 Women's Healthcare
21:52 Wages and Conditions
29:55 Activity Test
31:46 Family Violence
44:00 Women in the Media
53:56 Communicating to Younger Constituents
01:07:04 Reasons for Optimism & Path Forward

The presenting sponsor of the Socially Democratic podcast is Dunn Street. For more information on how Dunn Street can help you organise to build winning campaigns in your community, business or organisation, and make the world a better place, look us up at: dunnstreet.com.au 

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