1. National

Key Highlights:

  • Code of Conduct Review Completed. AFMW finalized a comprehensive review of its Code of Conduct, ensuring alignment with contemporary professional standards and values. The updated document has been distributed to all members, reinforcing a shared commitment to respectful, inclusive, and ethical engagement.

  • Focus on Growth and Collaboration. AFMW has prioritized collaboration with other national organisations, aiming to expand its influence and foster interdisciplinary partnerships. These efforts are designed to amplify advocacy, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for medical women across Australia.

  • Strategic Planning for MWIA-WPR 2027 Preparations are underway for the 2027 Medical Women’s International Association – Western Pacific Region (MWIA-WPR) Meeting, to be hosted in Melbourne. AFMW is actively building strategic frameworks to ensure a successful and impactful international gathering, with a focus on innovation, inclusion, and global engagement.

  1. ACT Region

  • Mother’s Day Fun Run – Members participated in the event, raising funds for breast and ovarian cancer research. • Mad Hatter’s Dinner Party – Held on 27 June, this annual fundraising event raised funds for four local charities.

  • Research Project Update – Prof. Louise Stone’s book on Sexual Harassment of Doctors by Doctors was published; MWS-ACT will participate in the launch event later this year. • Bursary Program Update – Two students awarded bursaries for electives in Vanuatu have rescheduled their placements for November 2025.

  1. NSW Region

  • Global Advocacy – Participated in a parallel event at the UN Commission on the Status of Women, discussing technology, AI, and gender equity. • Career Development – Hosted a successful CV and Interview Workshop and the annual Job Application Masterclass.

  • Strategic Partnerships – Collaborated with AMSA (Boots to Scrubs), PVOGS NSW, and the Bush Bursary Program.

  • Upcoming Event – Planning underway for ‘Motherhood in Medicine’ debut event in November 2025.

4. QLD Region

  • Purple Bush Medicine Leaves Bursary Program Launch – members contributed to the national working group and hosted a local celebration featuring a Welcome to Country and cultural storytelling.

  • QMWS Dinner – 22 May 2025: Dr Natasha Abeysekera presented on AI in healthcare at the United Services Club.

  • UQ Night of Appreciation – 29 May 2025: Celebrated QMWS’s connection with UQ and heard from Dr Lexie Prokopuk on menstrual disorders research.

  • Book Launch – 5 June 2025: Dr Johanna Skinner launched her second book, ‘A World of Silence’, on coercive control.

  • DHQ Art Exhibition – 6 June 2025: Celebrated mental health and creativity in medicine during Crazy Socks 4 Docs Day.

  • President’s Chat – Featured Dr Clare Wood discussing Occupational and Environmental Medicine.

  • 2025 QMWS/NCWQ Bursary Program Launch – 3 June: Five bursaries tailored for medical women, including the new Women in Radiology Bursary.