In every community, there are women who quietly make a difference—those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, shaping lives and strengthening communities without seeking recognition. For Shannon Fentiman MP, these everyday heroes are the true inspiration behind her work.

As a passionate advocate for women’s rights, health, and social justice, Shannon has spent her career championing those who uplift others.

In this Q&A, Shannon shares the women who inspire her most, the experiences that shaped her career, and her vision for a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive.

What’s your International Women’s Day message?
International Women’s Day is traditionally a day of protest, but we’re seeing now for many people it’s a day to celebrate and recognise the women in their lives.

For me, it’s about reflecting on the progress our community has made together. I’ll always be looking at what more I can do to improve the lives of women and girls, because everyone benefits when women and girls are empowered. We need to stand up and look out for one another. We’re stronger when we work together.

Which women inspire you the most?
I think when we get asked about who inspires us, often we think about leaders, celebrities and sports stars. But I think sometimes we overlook the everyday people in our lives that are truly remarkable. To me, the women who work hard behind the scenes to keep things moving in our communities, without expectation for recognition or praise, they are truly inspirational.

Our annual Wonderful Women of Waterford event seeks to honour those very women, who do so much for their families and the greater community without any expectations of recognition. Women like Annette, who has been a dedicated social worker in the Logan community, working behind the scenes in the family and domestic violence space, supporting those who need it most without a desire for recognition or praise.

Or Larissa and Ronelle, teachers at Marsden State High who were nominated in last year’s Wonderful Women of Waterford for their leadership and inspiration. These women give so much to the communities around them every day through their jobs and I think that’s something we can all be inspired by.

“We’re stronger when we work together.”

What’s the proudest moments of your career so far?
I’ve just reached the milestone of 10 years as the Member for Waterford. It is such an honour to hold this position and to be supported by our community. It is because of the people of Waterford that I was able to make some big changes in Queensland.

I am especially proud of the work I was able to do in my last portfolio, as Health Minister. The decision to make meningococcal B vaccine free for children and teenagers was a significant achievement. Queensland families advocated tirelessly for the vaccine to be implemented. I’m also proud to say we delivered free flu and RSV vaccines for Queenslanders, because free and accessible healthcare is a right and something I will also advocate for.

We also delivered the Women and Girls Health Strategy with free nurse led clinics, investments in endometriosis and free IVF for women with cancer.

I’m also incredibly proud of the work we have done to end violence against women and criminalise coercive control.