The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has launched an initiative to create opportunities for more women to join the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
The Connecting Women in Digital Initiative is a joint venture with industry to provide coaching, mentoring and networking for women who are already working in the sector, while also actively encouraging younger women to consider technology careers.
Minister for Human Services and Digital Transformation, Michael Keenan said ICT was one of the fastest growing industries in Australia, yet women represented just 28 per cent of the total workforce.
“This is a very concerning statistic, especially given that just 20 per cent of students currently enrolled in technology courses at Australian universities are female,” Mr Keenan said.
He said the Government was determined to see the situation improve.
“This initiative will give women working in digital roles within the Australian Public Service (APS) and the private sector a forum where they can come together to share their experiences and knowledge and make new connections that will assist them in their career development,” Mr Keenan said.
Under the initiative, regular engagement opportunities and events will be organised, featuring key leaders from across Government and industry.
He said a number of prominent ICT organisations have agreed to support the initiative, including Microsoft, IBM, SAP, Gartner, Oracle, Amazon Web Services, the Australian Information Industry Association and the Women in Information and Communication organisation.
More information is available from DTA by emailing [email protected].
