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Home , Annastacia Palaszczuk, Premier of Queensland

MESSAGE FROM THE OF

A warm welcome to all students taking part in the High School Model United Nations (BUHMUN) in 2021.

When I travel across our State – visiting schools and community groups – I am always inspired by the extraordinary empathy demonstrated by Queensland’s young people, as well as their commitment to justice, fairness and equality.

The Bond University High School Model United Nations is an opportunity to turn empathy into action, by learning more about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and working with peers to address critical issues impacting people and the planet.

This year’s conference theme - Achieving Gender Equality and Empowering Women and Girls – is of particular interest to my Government. Since 2015, we have introduced legislation and initiatives to drive transformative cultural change. This includes action to prevent and respond to Domestic and Family Violence, encourage greater female participation in science and technology, and support women to thrive in business through mentorships and grant programs. As Premier, I have actively encouraged women to take on leadership roles in an effort to address gender equality. Eight of 17 Queensland Ministers are women, and as of June 2020, there was 54 per cent female representation on boards – up from just 31 per cent when our Women on Boards initiative was launched in 2015.

However, we recognise there is still much work to be done to shift community attitudes and address dangerous rhetoric and behaviours. Earlier this year, I joined thousands of people of all ages and from all backgrounds at the March 4 Justice Rally in , standing in solidarity with the courageous women who shared their personal stories of violence and harassment. I know that together, we can effect generational change.

After BUHMUN, I hope you will use your refined skills of problem-solving, public speaking and conflict resolution to continue to act in the interests of a fairer, safer world for all women and girls. With passion, perseverance and teamwork, there is no limit to your influence and no challenge too great to overcome.

Thank you for your interest in the advancement of our global community, and I wish you an informative and enlightening experience over the next two days.

ANNASTACIA PALASZCZUK MP MINISTER FOR TRADE