As we approach International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024, it’s a time to reflect on the strides we’ve made towards gender equality and the work still ahead. This year, the theme “Inspire Inclusion” resonates deeply with our mission as a home aged and disability care provider. It’s a call to action that aligns with our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of age, gender, or ability, can live with dignity and independence.

The Essence of International Women’s Day 2024: Inspire Inclusion

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey towards gender equality. The theme for IWD 2024, “Inspire Inclusion,” emphasises the importance of creating spaces where diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels valued and respected. It’s about breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and ensuring that women from all walks of life, including those from marginalised communities, have the opportunity to thrive.

The Legacy of Women in Aged and Disability Care

The aged and disability care sectors have been profoundly shaped by the contributions of women, many of whom have been pioneers in advocating for the rights and inclusion of seniors and individuals living with disability. These women have fought tirelessly to ensure that care services are accessible, person-centred, and respectful of the dignity of every individual.

In Australia and around the world, women have been at the forefront of movements to improve the quality of care, champion the rights of older people and people living with disabilities, and push for policy changes that recognise the unique needs of these populations. Their efforts have paved the way for more inclusive care models that prioritise the independence and well-being of clients.

Inspiring Women in the Field

As we honour IWD 2024 with its theme of “Inspire Inclusion,” it is crucial to celebrate the legacies of Australian women who have been instrumental in the aged and disability sectors.

Stella Young: Empowering Perspectives and Inspiring Change

Stella Young was a comedian, journalist, and disability rights activist known for challenging societal perceptions of disability. She was the editor of the ABC’s “Ramp Up” website and used her platform to foster dialogue and understanding about disability challenges in Australia. Her TED Talk, “I’m not your inspiration, thank you very much,” went viral and sparked transformative conversations about disability rights.

Carly Findlay: Elevating Inclusivity Through Dialogue

Carly Findlay is a writer, speaker, and appearance activist who challenges societal beauty standards. She uses her experience with a visible skin condition to raise awareness about disability and chronic illness. Findlay’s blog and writing work have earned her recognition as one of Australia’s most influential women in the Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence Awards.

Dame Quentin Bryce: Guiding the Path to Inclusion

Dame Quentin Bryce, the 25th Governor-General of Australia, has been a champion for inclusivity and diversity, advocating for the rights and well-being of Australians with disabilities. She has been particularly passionate about promoting inclusive education and has become a guiding figure toward a more inclusive and fair future for all.

Rosemary Kayess: Pioneering Disability Rights

Rosemary Kayess is a human rights lawyer and disability rights advocate who has made significant contributions to the development of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Her work has been instrumental in shaping policies and legislation to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and equal opportunities for people with disabilities.

Elizabeth Kenny: Transforming Healthcare for Polio

Elizabeth Kenny was an Australian nurse who challenged conventional treatments for polio with a pioneering muscle rehabilitation program. Her innovative approach laid the groundwork for modern physical therapy and has had a lasting impact on healthcare.

Tracy Westerman: Leading Aboriginal Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Dr Tracy Westerman is a Njamal woman from Western Australia who is a world leader in Aboriginal mental health, cultural competency, and suicide prevention. Despite her remote background, she has achieved significant academic success and developed unique mental health assessment models and training packages. Dr Westerman has been an icon for the Aboriginal community and a pivotal figure in mental health awareness.

The legacy of these pioneering women continues to inspire and guide us towards a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive—an ethos that aligns seamlessly with the aspirations of IWD 2024.

Theme to Reality

Here at BCC, the theme of IWD 2024, “Inspire Inclusion,” is more than just a slogan—it’s a guiding principle that informs every aspect of our work. We recognise that fostering an inclusive environment is essential to helping our clients live independently. This means not only providing personalised care that meets the unique needs of each individual but also ensuring that our services are accessible to all, regardless of gender, age, or ability.

We are committed to breaking down barriers that prevent individuals from accessing the care and support they need. This includes advocating for policies that support the rights of seniors and people with disabilities, as well as working to eliminate gender disparities in the care sector.

Moving Forward: Our Commitment to Inclusion and Independence

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable world. We will continue to draw inspiration from the women who have paved the way in the aged and disability care sectors, and we will strive to honour their legacy by ensuring that our services empower our clients to live with independence.

We recognise that much work must be done to achieve inclusion in the care sector. However, we are committed to being part of the solution. We will continue to listen to the voices of those we serve, advocate for their rights, and work tirelessly to provide care that respects the dignity and independence of every individual.

Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world, one where the contributions of all individuals are valued and respected. Let’s continue to inspire inclusion in everything we do, not just on International Women’s Day but every day.

Live your best life.

Team BCC.