Activism is an important part of the democratic process. Individuals and communities have the power to shape government policy and society by campaigning for change.

In 1902, Australia became the second country to pass laws enabling women to vote. Discover how events and attitudes have shaped men’s and women’s roles and our views on gender, sexuality and marriage.

Pioneering Australians have earned respect as artists, sportspeople, explorers, scientists and inventors. Others worked tirelessly for humanitarian or environmental causes or against unjust laws.