ACT Victims of Crime Commissioner Heidi Yates is the 2025 ACT recipient of the Australian Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership.

Beyond her official role, Ms Yates chairs and advises boards and committees that champion social equality.

She said: “Being selected as the recipient of the ACT Award for Excellence in Women’s Leadership is an immense honour and a humbling responsibility.

“This recognition is not just a reflection of my individual efforts, but of the collective strength and resilience of the women I work alongside.

“It is a reminder that leadership is about empowering others, amplifying voices, and driving change within our own communities. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue advocating for equality and progress, and I am committed to supporting the next generation of women leaders who are already working fearlessly to shape our future.”

The awards  were created by Women & Leadership Australia in 2014 to honour women leaders nominated by the public for their outstanding contribution and  lasting impact across business, government, and community in delivering positive outcomes for women, girls or other groups facing disadvantage.

Karen Surmon, general manager of Women & Leadership Australia, said: “Heidi Yates is a tireless advocate for human rights, dedicating over 20 years to improving outcomes for women, survivors of violence, people with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and elder Australians.

“Her leadership has driven groundbreaking reforms, including the ACT’s recognition of a non-binary sex category and removing discrimination in parenting and civil partnerships.”