The ACT Government believes all women and girls should have the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are leading by example in progressing gender equality both within our own workforce and through our services and programs.
This Budget confirms our commitment through targeted initiatives that will see the ACT continue making progress towards the full and equal participation of women in all areas of our community. Key to this is our work over the next four years to implement the ACT Women’s Plan 2016-26 which will:
- Promote gender equality in the ACT
- Improve the evidence base related to gender equality
- Provide training to eliminate unconscious bias across government.
This investment will also support and promote the Diversity Register, which connects women and people from diverse backgrounds with opportunities to apply for board positions, as well as training and networking initiatives.
A key component of this investment is a board traineeship program to support more women to take on board directorships. The program focuses on traditionally male-dominated industries and sporting associations which are required to meet the target of 40 per cent female representation by 2020. We will develop training packages, strategies and tools which provide useful information for the whole community on how to address unconscious bias, and how to create a more respectful environment for women.
