This year's theme is 'Each for Equal: Working toward a gender equal world'.

You may have thought that a country like Australia had indeed reached a point where gender equality was no longer an issue but unfortunately, Australia isn't where it should be. Women's wages are still much lower than men's wages across the board; women over the age of 55 are the fastest growing group of Australians experiencing homelessness and one woman a week is still dying at the hands of a current or former partner.

Astonishingly, Australia is now ranked at 44 out of 153 countries when it comes to gaps between men and women in health, education, work and politics according to the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report.

As the federal representative for the electorate of Paterson, I witness and meet many hardworking, passionate and powerful women making a difference - in Parliament and in our community.

Their knowledge, drive and dedication to their given field is unparalleled.

On Monday, hundreds of these women gathered in Murrook Cultural Centre for the annual International Women's Day Breakfast hosted by State Member for Port Stephens, Kate Washington MP, and I.

It was our largest year yet with over 220 people shining a spotlight on the admirable women in our community, all while raising thousands of dollars for local organisations who help women and their families in need.

I'd like to recognise and congratulate the worthy recipients of the "Women of the Year" awards across the Paterson electorate including Aboriginal community liaison officer Sonia Sharpe (Cessnock), foster carer and volunteer Karen Stackman (Maitland), and Taurie Lalor for her advocacy with Tomaree Breast Cancer Support Group (Port Stephens). I'd also like to pay tribute to the Australian Labor Party who has led the way to achieving gender equality in our Parliament.

May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.