More than two thirds of Victoria’s new commemorative place names are set to honour women as part of a gender equality push by the Allan government.
The government on Tuesday said not enough recognition had been given to the achievements of women, compared to the appreciation extended to men.
A target has been set of having 70 per cent of all additional commemorative locations named after “remarkable” female Victorians over the next three years.
Residents are now being called on to help bring the plan to fruition by nominating local women “who have made a significant impact to the state or their community”.
A campaign by Geographic Names Victoria titled ‘Remember a Local – Name a Place’ was unveiled on Tuesday, encouraging Victorians to put forward their nominations
The government expects by 2027 more than 6,000 new places will have to be named, including suburbs, roads, schools, parks, buildings and community facilities.
A recent sample of 5,000 of the state’s roads and places revealed only 200 of them were named after women, compared to 1,400 which honoured men.
“Place names send a message about the contributions we value,” Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny said.
“For too long Victoria has not recognised the incredible women who have helped shape our state. We’re asking Victorians to help us change this for the better.”
Ms Kilkenny praised a recent decision to name a lane in Carlton, in Melbourne’s inner-north, after Dr Ethel Mary Vaughan Cowan.
Dr Cowan was the Melbourne Free Hospital for Sick Children’s first female doctor. The hospital is now the Royal Children’s Hospital.
“Dr Cowan is just one example of the many remarkable women whose contributions deserve to be recognised,” Ms Kilkenny said.
“This campaign is all about ensuring our public spaces reflect the rich diversity and history of Victoria.”
The 70 per cent target is part of the government’s Gender Equality Strategy and Action Plan 2023–2027.
Through the new naming campaign, the government is also calling for residents to nominate individuals “from underrepresented groups, including First Nations, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and culturally diverse communities”.
