Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

On 29 May I was absolutely honoured to co-convene a Pacific women leaders Webex forum with the Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa, Fiame Naomi Mataafa, to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on women's health, economic security and personal safety. Thirty Pacific parliamentary and civil service women leaders from 18 countries—an impressive meeting in anyone's terms—agreed to work together to explore new ways to enhance the wellbeing of women and girls. Contributions canvassed the economic impact, family concerns, women's safety, jobs and cultural issues—thought provoking and vital for shared understanding of the challenges. Our Partnerships for Recovery strategy is underpinned by our focus on the most vulnerable and includes addressing gender specific impacts of COVID-19. Australia stands with Pacific women at this time.