Centenary of suffrage

100th Anniversary of Queensland Women's Right to Vote

These archived pages were originally launched in 2005 to celebrate the anniversary of women gaining the right to vote in Queensland. They provide historical information about the struggle to gain the vote, and resources to download or order. The information is relevant for anyone interested in the story of suffrage in Queensland.

2005 marked one hundred years since most Queensland women gained the right to vote in State elections. It also marked the 40th anniversary of all Indigenous Queenslanders gaining that same right.

On behalf of the Queensland Government, the Office for Women coordinated celebrations across the State to commemorate these important milestones for Queensland women and Indigenous people. Free resources focused on the 100th anniversary of Queensland women's right to vote.

The theme for the centenary (and also International Women's Day 2005 which was held on 8 March, 2005) was:

Celebrate the past, claim the future

Find out more

Read about the history of women's voting rights in Queensland and the struggle for Indigenous voting rights.

Listen to stories of some of our women pioneers highlighting what women have achieved in the past 100 years.

"Great Queensland Women" commemorative publication. This full colour illustrated 100 page book pays tribute to 21 outstanding women - activist, trailblazers, achievers and reformers who all contributed to the shaping of our State.

Resources for schools

A how to organise an event booklet (PDF, 787 KB) was released to assist in event planning, as well as resources for schools to get involved in the celebrations. A range of free posters, bookmarks, calendars and stickers were also made available to help you and your community mark the 100th anniversary of Queensland women's right to vote.