(Community Recognition Statement, 19 March 2024, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I humbly recognise Dr Anne Summers AO who has been a leading voice for feminism and equality for over five decades. Her outstanding career spans activism, writing, journalism, and politics, significantly contributing to our nation's social fabric. Fifty years ago, Dr Summers squatted in and co-founded Australia's first women's refuge, Elsie's Women's Refuge in Glebe, providing safety for women and children which started the refuge movement. A year later, her trailblazing book, Damned Whores and God's Police, offered a critical feminist perspective on Australian history. Her fearless journalism, exemplified by her Walkley Award-winning investigation into NSW prison conditions, sparked reform. As head of the Commonwealth Office of the Status of Women, Dr Summers was pivotal in securing the Sex Discrimination Act 1984. She was also editor of the feminist magazine Ms. in the United States of America. She has been a vocal advocate for women's rights, challenging societal norms, and her authoritative commentary and leadership continue to shape public discourse on critical issues facing women today. Dr Summers' achievements were recognised with an Officer of the Order of Australia award in 1989 for service to journalism and to women's affairs.