We need to talk about cupcakes. Does that sound a bit random? Stay with me. We need to talk about cupcakes because it is International Women’s Day this week and over the past decade it’s become a fixture in the calendar that I have come to associate with cupcakes because they are often served or sent out at events to mark the day.
And while I very genuinely love cupcakes (buttercream icing for the win) I like them as a delicious treat - not as a substitute for the substantive stuff women in Australia need. And what, exactly, would that “substantive stuff” be? It’s simple.
Every woman and child in Australia deserves access to a safe place to work, a safe place to live, fair and equal pay, quality free early childhood education & care, and a justice system that works for survivors.
That’s it. The day that vision is a reality is the day for an almighty celebration to end all celebrations. There wouldn’t be enough cupcakes in the world for that party. And while it’s one hell of a stretch goal I’m not convinced it’s beyond us. Because many of the changes with the capacity to make that our reality are known and within reach.
Watch this new video to learn more. 
Whether it’s International Women’s Day or not, here at The Parenthood we are totally and utterly committed to working with all of you to ensure every family, child and carer enjoys the bold reforms they need to thrive. There is no way around the fact these very same reforms will dramatically improve the safety and security of women.
So on IWD 2022 can I please ask you to help spread The Parenthood word??? 
You can get involved with our #ParentsUp campaign for better Paid Parental Leave, Childcare and Outside School Hours Care. It's all in the name of making Australia a better place to be a parent and the best part is you'll meet other awesome parents!
Please see below and click on the image to register for each session. (Kids, food, PJs and messy hair are always welcome!)
And last but not least: Do you have children? Do you want to help us make a difference for the early learning sector? Then please take our 2022 Summer Survey - 3 minutes is all it takes! 😀 Many thanks.
🙏🙏🙏
Georgie
PS. I chatted to Sally Rugg and Francis Leach and explained that in an ideal world childcare wouldn’t be described as a “women’s issue” because it would impact mums and dads in the same way. You can listen to the podcast here.
