A major controversy has erupted in Australia after a transgender woman won the 2025 Sydney Local Woman of the Year award. While some have praised Brianna Skinner for her contributions and heroism, others argue that the honor should have gone to someone who was born female. The debate has taken over social media, with strong reactions from both sides.
Brianna Skinner Named 2025 Sydney Local Woman of the Year
Brianna Skinner, a transgender woman and well-known advocate for equality, was named Sydney Local Woman of the Year this week. The award, organized annually by the New South Wales (NSW) government, recognizes women who have made outstanding contributions to their communities.
Sydney MP Alex Greenwich selected Skinner for the honor, calling her a “proud transgender woman and a fierce advocate for equality.”
In his official statement, Greenwich praised Skinner’s activism and community efforts, stating:
“Brianna’s experience transitioning from male to female exposed the discrimination and bureaucratic barriers in NSW laws. This conversation helped shape my Equality Bill.”
While many applauded the recognition, others were quick to criticize the decision, arguing that the award should go to a biological woman.
Skinner’s Advocacy for Transgender Rights
Brianna Skinner has long been an outspoken activist for transgender rights. Her advocacy began in 2014 when she and her wife, Nuna, contacted Alex Greenwich’s office to push for changes in NSW laws that made it difficult for transgender individuals to update their identification documents.
Her personal journey through bureaucratic hurdles and discrimination inspired her to become a vocal advocate for legal reforms, leading to changes in gender recognition laws in the state.
This ongoing work for equality played a significant role in Greenwich’s decision to honor Skinner with the award. However, despite her achievements, many critics believe that the title of “Woman of the Year” should only be given to those born female.
Heroism During the Bondi Junction Stabbing Attack
Beyond her activism, Skinner was also recognized for her heroic actions during a terrifying incident in April 2024.
During the Bondi Junction stabbing attack, Skinner—who was working as a retail floor manager—acted quickly to lead dozens of customers to safety. Greenwich detailed her bravery, saying:
“Upon hearing unusual commotion, Brianna directed 40 customers toward the rear of the store. She secured the shop and reassured people until police evacuated them safely.”
Her quick thinking may have saved lives, and many have commended her for stepping up in a moment of crisis. However, critics argue that acts of bravery alone do not justify awarding the Woman of the Year title to a transgender woman.
Fundraising Efforts and Community Impact
Skinner’s contributions extend beyond activism and heroism. She has actively raised funds for veterans’ organizations, particularly for the group Soldier On, which supports Australian military veterans.
Her unique approach to fundraising included participating in chili-eating competitions, which helped raise over $3,000 for the cause. Her success even led her to South Carolina, where she competed in the World Chili Eating Competition while promoting inclusivity and charity work.
Despite these contributions, backlash against her award win has dominated the conversation. Many people believe that while Skinner’s actions are commendable, they do not justify overriding biological sex in women’s awards.
Backlash: Critics Call the Decision ‘Misogynistic’
While Skinner’s accomplishments are undeniable, the decision to name a transgender woman as Sydney Local Woman of the Year has sparked outrage, particularly among women’s rights activists.
Anti-trans activist Kirralie Smith called the move “gaslighting” and accused officials of disrespecting biological women.
Commentator Prue MacSween echoed similar sentiments, saying:
“This is virtue signaling by Clover Moore and Alex Greenwich. It undermines the purpose of the award, which is to honor women.”
The anger spread across social media, with people expressing frustration over the decision:
- “So a man takes an award for Woman of the Year… absolutely disgusting misogyny.”
- “Why treat women with such disdain and disrespect? Women don’t accept this as normal.”
- “This is just ludicrous and a slap in the face to real women.”
- “Should go to a real woman. Shame on you.”
- “Blame the idiots who allowed this to happen. What an insult to the real women who were in the competition.”
The backlash highlights a growing divide in conversations about gender identity, women’s rights, and fairness in awards and recognition.
Supporters Defend Skinner’s Achievements
Despite the controversy, many people have stepped forward to defend Brianna Skinner, praising her for her bravery and advocacy.
One supporter wrote online:
“Brianna is a hero who saved lives during the Bondi Junction attack. She has a proven record of protecting women.”
Others emphasized that gender identity should not disqualify someone from being recognized for their contributions to society.
MP Alex Greenwich remained firm in his decision, calling Skinner “one of the strongest people I know.” He continued to defend her, stating:
“She is dedicated to her community and our global city. Her contributions speak for themselves.”
The controversy has reignited debates on whether transgender women should be recognized in categories traditionally reserved for biological women. While some view it as a step toward inclusivity, others see it as an erasure of women’s achievements.
The Bigger Debate: What Defines ‘Woman of the Year’?
This controversy isn’t just about one award—it’s part of a larger cultural and political debate. Across the world, discussions about transgender inclusion in women’s spaces—from sports to awards—continue to divide public opinion.
Should a woman’s award be limited to biological women, or should it recognize transgender women who contribute significantly to society?
The NSW government has not made any moves to reconsider the award, but with the backlash growing, it remains to be seen whether future changes will be made to eligibility criteria.
For now, Brianna Skinner stands by her win, while critics continue to demand answers.
Final Thoughts: A Divisive Decision That Sparks Larger Conversations
The 2025 Sydney Local Woman of the Year award has become more than just a recognition of achievements—it has become a symbol of the ongoing debate over gender identity and women’s rights.
Brianna Skinner’s heroism, activism, and community service are undeniable, but the controversy surrounding her win underscores deep societal divisions. While supporters see it as a progressive step toward inclusivity, critics argue that it undermines the purpose of women’s awards.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear—this conversation isn’t going away anytime soon.
