The Territory has exceeded its gender targets on ACT Government boards and committees according to a new report on the Office for Women’s second action plan under the ACT Women’s Plan 2016-2026.
Highlighting the achievement on International Women’s Day (8 March), Minister for Women, Yvette Berry said the Territory had surpassed the target of women holding 50 per cent of positions on ACT Government boards and committees.
“In January this year, women’s representation was at 55 per cent,” Ms Berry said.
“This is one of many important steps to advancing women’s leadership in the ACT,” she said.
“Reporting also highlighted work is underway on all 29 actions in the Second Action Plan, with six already fully delivered despite some of the challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has presented.”
Ms Berry said significant achievements included the implementation of the Justice Housing Program, with two properties dedicated to housing female detainees on release; prioritised funding for underrepresented women and girls; and the launch of the ‘Mind Map’ portal to support young people – including young girls – seeking mental health and well-being support in the ACT.
She said International Women’s Day was an opportunity to reflect on progress made towards women’s equality; to call for further change; and to celebrate the achievements of women and girls in all aspects of society.
“This is especially important after a challenging two years for women, impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Minister said.
“From working on the frontline in female-dominated healthcare and social assistance workforces, to disproportionately bearing the heavy load of remote learning and unpaid care work at home.”
Ms Berry said this year’s International Women’s Day was marked by two distinct themes, Break the Bias and Changing Climates: Equality today for a sustainable tomorrow.
