The Surf Coast Shire has added International Men’s Day on 19^th November to its awareness-raising calendar. According to the local newspaper, there was “some debate between councillors,” before the decision was confirmed.

The proposed calendar for 2026-2029 notes 11 ‘special days’  including First Nations on 26^th January, International Women’s Day on 8^th March, and World Environment Day on 5^th June, replacing NAIDOC Week.

Councillor Paul Barker pointed out that International Men’s Day was missing. “What this calendar represents is a sexist way of diminishing one sex over another,” he said.

Councillor Adrian Schonfelder supported the change, adding: “One thing I am I’m very concerned about is the suicide rates of men, particularly young men and the fact that men are reluctant to speak out about issues,” he said.

Councillor Libby Stapleton offered qualified support: “By highlighting International Women’s Day, it’s not diminishing the need for us to acknowledge the challenges that men have in our community. It’s really important to acknowledge those," she said. 

“Trying to balance centuries of inequality is really important and highlighting International Women’s Day is one small way that we can we can do that.”

The new listings will come into effect on 1^st January, 2026.

Full story Surf Coast Times