UPDATE: The extraordinary achievements of Australian women were spotlighted at the Marie Claire Women of the Year awards held last night, recognizing their impactful work in advocacy, entertainment, sports, and the creative industries. This celebration highlights a powerful movement toward societal change, with winners representing the very best of Australia’s changemakers.
Among the most notable honorees is Emma Mason, awarded Changemaker of the Year for her relentless advocacy following the tragic suicide of her 15-year-old daughter Tilly in 2022, a victim of severe cyberbullying. Mason has become a leading voice for urgent reforms in digital safety, successfully advocating for Australia’s upcoming social media regulations, which will take effect on December 10, 2025.
Mason’s impactful work gained international recognition when she addressed the United Nations in September, calling for global action to protect children online. After her powerful speech, she received a standing ovation, underscoring the urgency of her message. “I’m just a mum from Bathurst who is trying to change the world,” she stated, emphasizing the need for collaboration among nations to hold social media companies accountable.
The ceremony featured over 150 winners, nominees, and guests who walked the red carpet, celebrating the achievements of women who are reshaping the world. Other significant awardees included comedian Kitty Flanagan as Entertainer of the Year, and Julie Inman Grant, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, recognized as Powerhouse of the Year for her influential role in digital safety advocacy.
Also honored was Molly Picklum, named Champion of the Year for her contributions to sports, alongside Grace Toombs, who shared the Advocate of the Year title with Nicole Yade, the CEO of the Women’s and Girls’ Emergency Centre. Toombs’ advocacy stems from her personal experience with healthcare challenges at a young age, leading her to launch June Health, a digital platform aimed at improving access to sexual and reproductive health services across Australia.
“Healthcare has historically been sterile and hasn’t felt inviting particularly for women,” Toombs expressed. Her initiative offers at-home STI and cervical screening test kits, which have already reached individuals in every state and territory, aiming to empower women’s health experiences and ensure they feel confident navigating the healthcare system.
The judges, including notable figures such as former Australian of the Year Grace Tame and comedian Celeste Barber, selected winners based on their transformative impact on society. “These women don’t wait for a better future; they build one – one voice at a time,” said Georgie McCourt, editor of Marie Claire, highlighting the importance of recognizing both loud and quiet efforts in advocacy.
As the world watches, these award-winning women embody the spirit of change, reminding us of the profound human impact of their work. Their stories resonate far beyond Australia, inspiring a global conversation on the importance of advocacy, safety, and empowerment in today’s society.
Stay tuned for more updates on the ongoing efforts of these remarkable women as they continue to challenge norms and strive for a better future.
