Candy was presented with the EMILY Award for her strong and inspiring leadership on the issue of Abortion Law Reform in Victoria. On July 17'" 2007 she introduced a Private Member's Bill that sought to decriminalise abortion in Victoria, and although the bill was withdrawn, what Candy achieved was a significant step forward for the rights of all women in Victoria.
In nominating Candy for this award, Kerrilie Rice said: "Candy has shown incredible strength and bravery during 2007. She has harnessed her considerable talents and courage in leading the way for abortion law reform in Victoria. Her commitment to equity for all women in the state including those from rural and regional Victoria, in accessing safe and legal abortion services, is further evidence that she has put herself on the line for what she believes in and the core principles of EMlLY's List."
Candy's endeavours have touched the lives of so many Victoria women, and EMILY’s List extends it's gratitude and congratulations to her. We are sure that we will be working together, on this issue and many others, with Candy for many years to come.
Editors Note: The Victorian Law Reform Commission report that resulted from Candy 's private members bill was released in March 2008, and tabled in the Victorian Parliament in May. The resulting Abortion Law Reform Bill was passed on 10 October 2008, a proud and emotional day for all those who have worked on this campaign - congratulations!