Sally Goldner becomes first trans women on Victoria’s Honour Roll for Women

Matthew Wade
March 8, 2016

Image: Sally Goldner. Image provided.

A TRANS woman has been inducted onto the Victorian Honour Roll for Women for the first time as part of International Women’s Day celebrations.

Trans activist and Transgender Victoria executive director Sally Goldner was inducted for her longstanding work in the LGBTI community, as well as her advocacy for trans and bi visibility.

Goldner said it was “a sensational feeling” to be the first trans woman inducted since the Honour Roll began in 2001.

“It’s a good sign that we are trying as best we can to progress and be recognised in broader society for our achievements,” she told the Star Observer.

“It acknowledges that if trans people give it a shot, we’ll be considered, and that’s a really great thing for our community.”

The Honour Roll was developed to celebrate the lasting contributions of women in Victoria at a local, national, and international level.

This year’s inductees include the founder of a sustainable food rescue charity, a netball champion, and a leading comedian, who all join the ranks of more than 500 Victorian women who have been honoured.

Goldner said as both a bi and trans woman she intends to continue fighting for the visibility of both communities.

“For bi people the issue is still about visibility and basic inclusion, and a need for bisexual research in Australia,” she said.

“For trans and gender diverse people, including trans women, health and medical care need to be the focus.

“We also need to look after trans and gender diverse young people, particularly in the current climate… we need to resettle that and move forward.”

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Victoria’s Minister for Women Fiona Richardson presented the awards at a ceremony held in Federation Square, Melbourne.

Richardson said she was “incredibly proud” of every woman inducted onto the Honour Roll this year.

“Every woman on this list has such an amazing success story to tell,” she said.

“We have such inspirational leaders and mentors paving the way for our next generation of Victorian women.

“The government is proud to celebrate the contributions of these remarkable women who have worked tirelessly to make our community a fairer and more inclusive place.”

The full list of the 2016 Honour Roll inductees: