Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has highlighted recent advancements in gender equality within his government, marking a series of historic appointments of women to senior leadership roles across the public sector. Speaking on Tuesday, Albanese emphasised that achieving gender equity has taken far too long and praised the government’s efforts to appoint women on merit to key positions.

At a Defence Department announcement, Albanese introduced Industry Department secretary Meghan Quinn as the first woman appointed to head the Defence Department. He described the move as “historic” and part of a broader government commitment to gender balance. Albanese noted that his administration is the first in Australian history with a majority of women in cabinet, comprising 55 percent of its members, and with women representing more than half of the party caucus.

While acknowledging that gender equality has not yet been fully realised, Albanese pointed to the growing representation of women leading Australia’s four principal public service departments. Alongside Quinn in Defence, Jenny Wilkinson serves as Treasury Secretary, Jan Adams heads the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Stephanie Foster leads the Department of Home Affairs.

The Prime Minister also cited other significant appointments including Governor-General Sam Mostyn, Reserve Bank governor Michele Bullock, and Productivity Commission chair Danielle Wood. Additionally, Krissy Barrett holds the position of Australian Federal Police Commissioner, and Susan Coyle has been named the next Chief of Army.

Albanese emphasised that these appointments reflect merit-based decisions and showcase the government's ongoing efforts to promote equal opportunities. “If this was a press conference 20 years ago, this group would have looked different,” he stated, underscoring the progress made since then.

The series of appointments marks a notable shift towards increased gender diversity in Australia’s highest offices, reflecting evolving attitudes and institutional priorities under the current government.