More women are being supported in their careers thanks to the Victorian Government’s investment in programs that will aim to address the structural barriers in leadership roles. 

Women continue to be significantly under-represented in key decision-making roles across almost all industries. In 2021, only one of 23 chief executive officer appointments to Australia’s ASX 300 companies was female.  

“Women have long been missing from key decision-making tables. By improving the representation of women in leadership, we’re ensuring that our institutions better reflect the diversity of our communities,” Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams said. 

“Systemic barriers continue to stand in the way of the career progression of many women.  These programs will address the barriers that limit women’s opportunities and experiences.” 

Following this, Minister Williams announced $1 million in funding for leadership programs, including new initiatives that will equip organisations to create more inclusive and diverse workplaces.  

Programs delivered under the funding include: 

• Women’s Board Leadership Program – providing scholarships with the Australian Institute of Company Directors and offer a new stream with the Institute of Community Directors Australia 
• Joan Kirner Young Leaders Program – focusing on supporting young leaders in male-dominated industries 
• Aboriginal Women’s Leadership Program – providing culturally safe and community-led training for First Nations Women 
• The co-design of a Women of Colour Executive Leadership Program – addressing barriers for women of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds 
• Inclusive Leadership Habits program with the National Association of Women in Operations – building more inclusive workplaces for up to 250 leaders in male-dominated industries 
• Future Women Leadership program – scholarships for rural women to join leadership forums and advance their careers 
• Victorian Honour Roll of Women – honouring the achievements of Victorian women. 

Applications for these programs open in early 2022.  

“This International Women’s Day, we’re breaking the bias that prevents women from being represented equally in leadership,” Minister Williams said. 

Source: Premier of Victoria Media Release

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

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