Putting Security Council Resolution 1325 back on the Australian agenda

For example, bodies such as the Australian Defence Force, the Australian Federal Police and AusAID play an important role in building the capacity of women's organisations in the countries they operate. However, no clear assignment of responsibility exists holding these organisations accountable for their operations and internal structures.

NAP needs to deliver a comprehensive set of guidelines and processes that ensure bodies such as these to take a leading role in its implementation.

The NAP also currently sits within the responsibility of the Office for Women for coordination which faces the challenges of being under-resourced and continually de-funded by Governments of all stripes.

For a NAP to be successful it needs to be prioritised on the Government agenda across all portfolios.

It also needs to be backed up by a fully funded program for implementation. Without a genuine financial commitment and willingness for Australia to put its money where its mouth is, little will be achieved in real terms for women in conflict situations.

As we approach the 12 year anniversary of SCR 1325's adoption we want to ensure Australia's response includes actions that are enforceable and measurable, and implementation that can be evaluated.

This International Women's Day we are calling on the Federal Government to release its final NAP.

As a nation that prides itself on being a leader in the world community it is disappointing that it has taken so long for us to make any firm moves towards meeting our international obligations regarding women's peace and security in conflict situations.

International Women's Day is celebrated across the globe on March 8th each year. This International Women's Day UN Women Australia is helping make marketplaces safe for women in the Pacific by fundraising for UN Women's Partners Improving Markets program.

You can lend your support to this year's campaign by donating, buying official International Women's Day merchandise, hosting a fundraising event, or attending one of UN Women Australia's flagship events across Australia. For more information visit www.unwomen.org.au.