Australia will be at the forefront of global efforts to promote the role of women and girls with the appointment of Penny Williams as Australia's first Global Ambassador for Women and Girls. According to a statement by Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Ms Williams' role will ensure the needs of women and girls are properly represented in Australia's overseas development program and in foreign policy more broadly.

The Ambassador's priorities include co-ordinating and promoting Australia's work to eradicate violence against women, improving access to services for women, the protection of women and girls in conflict zones and increasing the representation of women in leadership roles.