Transgender Australian wins ‘Woman of the Year’ award, sparking outrage and debate as she was not born female.
A major controversy has erupted after a transgender woman won the 2025 Sydney Local Woman of the Year award.
Critics argue the winner was not born female, fueling intense debate.
Skinner named 2025 Sydney Local Woman of the Year
Brianna Skinner, a transgender woman, received the prestigious award this week.
The New South Wales (NSW) government organizes these annual awards to honor women making significant contributions in their communities.
Sydney MP Alex Greenwich announced Skinner as his chosen recipient. He praised her as a “proud transgender woman and a fierce advocate for equality.”
Brianna Skinner’s advocacy for transgender rights
Greenwich first met Skinner in 2014 when she and her wife, Nuna, contacted his office.
They sought changes to NSW laws preventing transgender people from updating identification documents.
“Brianna’s experience transitioning from male to female exposed the discrimination and bureaucratic barriers in NSW laws,” Greenwich stated. “This conversation helped shape my Equality Bill.”
Heroic actions during Bondi Junction stabbing attack
Skinner also displayed bravery during the Bondi Junction stabbing attack in April 2024. While working as a retail floor manager, she led dozens of customers to safety.
Skinner, a transgender woman, won the 2025 Sydney Local Woman of the Year award, sparking backlash.
“Upon hearing unusual commotion, Brianna directed 40 customers toward the rear of the store,” Greenwich said. “She secured the shop and reassured people until police evacuated them safely.”
Chili-eating champion and charity fundraiser
Skinner has also raised funds for veteran support organization Soldier On. She competed in chili-eating contests, raising over $3,000.
Her success led her to South Carolina for the World Chili Eating Competition. Greenwich praised her for “forging connections and promoting inclusivity.”
Backlash over the award
Despite her achievements, the award has sparked fierce criticism.
Anti-trans activist Kirralie Smith accused officials of “gaslighting” the public.
Commentator Prue MacSween claimed most women would find the award “offensive.” She argued that “modern-day suffragettes” must now fight for their rights again.
“This is virtue signaling by Clover Moore and Alex Greenwich,” she told Daily Mail Australia. “It undermines the purpose of the award, which is to honor women.”
Many expressed outrage as Brianna Skinner received the prestigious award, suggesting that she was not born female. They also claimed that the ‘Woman of the Year’ award should be given to someone more deserving.
One person said: So a man takes an award for Woman of the Year…absolutely disgusting misogyny
A second wrote: Why treat women with such disdain and disrespect. Women don’t accept this as normal
While a third commented: Just fkn ludicrous and a slap in the face real woman
Another added: Should go to a real woman shame on you .
Someone else said: Blame the idiots that allowed him to win it must be judged by women to award it to a woman , so their to blame , what an insult to the real women that were in the competition.
Supporters defend Skinner’s achievements
Not all reactions were negative. Many supporters praised Skinner for her heroism and advocacy.
“Brianna is a hero who saved lives during the Bondi Junction attack,” one person wrote online. “She has a proven record of protecting women.”
Greenwich stood by his choice, calling her “one of the strongest people I know.” He emphasized that she is “dedicated to her community and our global city.”