LOCAL women’s organisations have criticised the recent Federal budget for, in their views, consolidating some of the existing inequalities for women in the workplace.

Business and Professional Women (BPW), is a global organisation, that is committed to ensuring that the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals form a part of a national vision and response.

Members believe that Goal #5, Gender Equality, has become an even more urgent priority as the nation and local communities respond to COVID 19.

Workplace equality is not just about income.

An equal workplace is underpinned by a culture that is inclusive, in which perspectives are valued and individuals are heard, supported and respected.

To raise awareness and consider the personal and community benefits from acknowledging and planning for workplace equality, BPW Coffs Harbour is hosting a networking, informing, sharing and planning event on November 17.

The event begins at 5:30 pm at the Bunker Gallery and will provide opportunities to consider the implications of ongoing national and global events affecting gender equality.

Kellie Pearce, Financial Planner with Aware Super will present strategies and provide support for participants to plan for action, on a personal and/community level.

Sofia Ellington, the Regional Executive for Commercial Banking for ANZ Bank, and a member of BPW Coffs Harbour is one of the organisers of the event.

“I believe gender balance in the workplace makes good business sense,” she said.

Sofia went on to say that companies and organisations that are open to encouraging and supporting a diverse and balanced work environment generally benefit from increased engagement, motivation and productivity.

This is because it provides the ability to capture diverse thinking and a different perspective based on varying experiences to increase effectiveness in all aspects of an organisation’s operation.

Sofia pointed out that ANZ has maintained the ‘Employer of Choice for Women’ citation for many years, as assessed by the Australian Government’s Workplace Gender Equality Agency, so she is speaking from experience.

She said that, in equal workplaces, “The ultimate outcome is improved economic benefit for all.”

While there is no cost, pre-booked tickets are necessary and can be accessed through Eventbrite.

This event is supported by the ANZ Bank through the provision of refreshments.

For further information email bpwcoffsharbour@gmail.com

 

By Andrew VIVIAN