Child bride tragedy holding back girls' true potential

The harmful practice of child marriage is under scrutiny ahead of International Day of the Girl.

Australians are being urged to use the day - October 11 - to reflect on outdated cultural norms, values and gender stereotypes that contribute to inequality.

Around the world, 12 million girls under the age of 18 are married each year, which equates to one almost every three seconds.

While early and child marriage affects both girls and boys, the impact on girls is much greater and those who grow up in poverty or living through a crisis, conflict or disaster are particularly at risk.

For Akec Makur Chuot, the topic is deeply personal.

The former AFLW player grew up in a Kenyan refugee camp, where she lived for 12 years before settling in Perth.

Her sister, who remained in Kenya, was force