State Minister for Women, Jodi McKay, said almost $130,000 would be provided to support councils as they recognise women in their local community.

“International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the wonderful and varied talents of local women and the contributions they make to their communities,” Ms McKay said.

“It is also a time to reflect on the hardships that many women around the world face and this year’s International Women’s Day theme is, Empowering Women to End Poverty by 2015.

“Currently 70 per cent of the world’s poor are women and this year’s theme acknowledges that empowering women can help to break the cycle of poverty.”

Ms McKay said that while it is important to acknowledge the effects of poverty on women around the world it is also a time to celebrate women’s achievements. “In fact for the first time in our State’s history the NSW Governor, Premier and Deputy Premier are all Women and wonderful role models for young women who aspire to leadership roles,” she said.

Ms McKay said councils will be hosting a wide range of events on Monday, March 8.

“There will be a number of networking opportunities for women with seminars, exhibitions and workshops being held across the State,” she said.

“There will also be the opportunity for people to enjoy surf lessons, film screenings, financial seminars and art competitions.”