The 2025 Sydney Local Woman of the Year award has ignited a fierce backlash after transgender woman Brianna Skinner was named the recipient. The award, a NSW government initiative that honors women for their contributions to local communities, has sparked debate over what defines “womanhood” and who should be eligible for such recognitions.

Skinner, a proud transgender woman, was nominated by Sydney MP Alex Greenwich, who praised her for being a “fierce advocate for equality and her communities.” He highlighted her work advocating for trans rights, particularly her efforts in 2014 when she, alongside her wife Nuna, raised concerns about the difficulties transgender people face in changing their gender on identification documents.

This advocacy helped lay the groundwork for the Equality Bill, a key piece of legislation aimed at addressing the needs of transgender and gender-diverse individuals.

However, the award announcement has sparked strong reactions, particularly from gender-critical commentators and activists. Kit Kowalski, a prominent podcast host, criticized the decision, noting that Skinner was born male, and accused those involved in the selection of engaging in “virtue signaling.”

Other critics, such as anti-trans campaigner Kirralie Smith and commentator Prue MacSween, expressed their frustration, arguing that awarding the title to a transgender woman undermines the purpose of the award and disrespects the struggles of women.

MacSween further argued that this recognition dilutes the category meant to honor women, describing the decision as a reflection of a broader trend where women’s rights and spaces are being challenged. She emphasized that many women would likely find the choice offensive, suggesting that the award “makes a joke of this particular award category.”

Despite the controversy, Skinner’s supporters point to her commendable actions and achievements. Notably, she played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of dozens of customers during the Bondi Junction terror attack in April 2024.

As a retail floor manager at Westfield Bondi Junction, Skinner swiftly directed 40 customers to safety, secured the store, and helped ensure a smooth evacuation until police arrived. This heroic act has earned her admiration from many, including Greenwich, who described her as “a true Sydney hero.”

Beyond her life-saving efforts, Skinner is also known for her competitive spirit, having won multiple chili-eating competitions and raised significant funds for the veteran support service Soldier On.

Her involvement in the Reaper Challenge raised over $3,000 for the charity, and she even represented Australia in the World Chilli Eating Competition in the United States, where she promoted inclusivity and transgender representation.

In a statement to Star Observer, Greenwich praised Skinner as one of the strongest people he knows, adding that she is dedicated to her community and has made a lasting impact on both Sydney and the broader global community.

While the award continues to divide opinion, it is clear that Skinner’s contributions, both on a local and international level, have left a significant mark on her community. However, the debate surrounding her recognition underscores ongoing discussions about gender, identity, and the way society defines women’s roles and achievements.

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