Today is the United Nations’ declared International Day of Rural Women - a day to recognise rural women and celebrate the contribution that women make to agriculture and regional development.

Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash said the Coalition Government was proud to back rural and regional women in their efforts to build stronger regional, rural and remote communities.

“Women in rural Australia are leaders, and I’m committed to getting more of them into parliament.

“Rural women are professionals, they are innovators. Rural women are known for their determination, resilience and positivity as well as their ability to turn challenges into opportunities and to think outside the box to find solutions.

“Without rural women, rural, regional and remote Australia would grind to a halt.

“Our city cousins would have no cereal in their breakfast bowls, no milk to put on their cereal, no salad at lunch and no meat at dinner.

“The roll-out of the nbn along with the Sky Muster satellite will allow many rural women to start online businesses and undertake tertiary education via distance.”

Minister for Women Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash said International Day of Rural Women was a time to reflect on the strong leadership of Australian women and reiterated that the Government is determined to ensure the talents and hard work of rural women is recognised and supported.

“The Coalition Government aims to empower rural women, so that they can have the same opportunities as their male counterparts through boosting women’s workforce participation and ensuring their economic security.”

Research shows that women in rural areas have some of the highest rates of workforce participation of all Australian women over age 35.

“We are committed to removing barriers to ensure a strong economic future for all Australian women including those who live in rural communities.”

The United Nations established International Day of Rural Women in 2007.

The day recognizes the critical role and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women, in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.