Afghanistan Women’s XI vs Cricket Without Borders XI

I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we meet, the Boon Wurrung people of Kulin nation.

I pay my respect to their Elders, past and present.

I also acknowledge any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people here with us today.

Thank you to Cricket Australia, Cricket without Borders and everyone involved for organising this exceptional event.

To the Afghanistan Women's XI cricket team and all their support staff and supporters, thank you.

Your dedication, perseverance, and commitment are truly inspiring.

Australia is very proud to host so many members of the Afghanistan Women's cricket team.

Today we celebrate the team as a symbol of courage and resilience in the face of immense adversity.

Today's match is more than a game.

I admire the resilience and dignity of these women, and their determination to build their own futures and the future of their communities.

I saw first-hand, in the nets yesterday, just how these incredible women embody these values, when I had the privilege of joining them at their practice session.

They showed me that even in the face of systemic oppression and discrimination, sport can provide a platform for empowerment.

The Taliban has demonstrated contempt for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls in Afghanistan, through a campaign of sustained and systematic oppression.

This includes denying girls their right to education and attempting to erase women from public life.

Australia stands firmly with the people of Afghanistan in opposing these injustices.

We will not stand by and allow the situation in Afghanistan to become a 'new normal'.

We have heard the calls of Afghan women and we are committed to defending their human rights and amplifying their voices.

The participation of women and girls in society is essential to achieving peaceful societies and sustainable development.

We continue to urge the Taliban to end its egregious treatment of women and girls, including at the United Nations Human Rights Council and at the United Nations General Assembly.

We are leading an unprecedented international effort with the Netherlands, Canada and Germany to hold Afghanistan accountable under international law for violations of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

We will not waver in our support for Afghan women, both in Afghanistan and around the globe.

Our humanitarian support for the people of Afghanistan continues.

Since coming to office, the Albanese Government has committed $174 million in humanitarian and development assistance to support the people of Afghanistan.

We also recognise the transformative potential of sport as a tool for fostering change and building global connections.

As the ICC's rules mandate, Test-playing nations have a responsibility to actively support and promote women's cricket.

This is important because ensuring opportunities for women to excel are an essential part of the game's future.

I applaud Cricket Without Borders in particular for its work providing opportunities and experiences for young girls and women to enjoy cricket.

Thank you for your commitment to developing the women's game…

… and also for your focus on promoting friendship and understanding off the field.

You are playing an indispensable role in today's match.

Later, we'll witness the conclusion of the Women's Ashes series at the MCG at the first-ever Day-Night Test Match to be played there.

The rise of women's cricket is a testament to the progress of women in sport, and the potential for sport to promote gender equality.

Today's match is a celebration of the Afghan Women's XI, as a team and as individuals.

It underscores the importance of inclusion and empowerment in sport, even in the face of daunting challenges.

Their focus and determination inspires us all, and I have no doubt what is happening here today will give hope to women and girls in Afghanistan.

We stand with them and Australia will continue to work for their rights.

Thank you for inviting me to be part of this special day.