Absolutely they are role models. These are normal humans that have no alien powers or abilities, yet have saved the world and the doctor just by being strong independent women.
And they are the heart of the show. They are the reason the Doctor keeps keeping on. The reason he went from a cantankerous selfish Doctor to a Doctor willing to put his lives on the line.
...you are both so spot on with your comments Isee/reepbot... plus we had Missy that showed us just how prominent women have been and always will be such amazing role models for all young females too... (in Missy's case... perhaps showing what NOT to be like I guess?... lol!)... even with guests on the show... the show has always shown womens strong sides and their virtues too... and who started that mindset right from the beginning of the series?... that beautiful wonderful woman by the name of 'Verity Lambert' that's who... so females have always been shown the due respect that they've always deserved within the show so there's no denying that in my books at least... cheers.