The Territory has exceeded gender targets on ACT Government boards and committees, reaching 55 per cent of female representation in January, a new report has revealed on International Women’s Day today, 8 March.

On IWD, ACT Minister for Women Yvette Berry took the opportunity to highlight the advancement of women’s leadership in the ACT.

This IWD, Canberrans join the global community to celebrate the achievements of women and girls in the community – and work towards gender equality in all areas of their lives.

“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on progress made towards women’s equality, call for further change and celebrate the achievements of women and girls in all aspects of our society,” said Ms Berry.

“This is especially important after a challenging two years for women, impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 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.”

In 2022, IWD is marked by two distinct themes: ‘Break the Bias’, and ‘Changing Climates: Equality today for a sustainable tomorrow’.

Today, the ACT Government released reporting on the second year of Equity Together, the Second Action Plan 2020-2022 under the ACT Women’s Plan 2016-2026.

“One of the key achievements highlighted in this report is the Government surpassing 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. This is one of many important steps to advancing women’s leadership in the ACT.”

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.

Significant achievements include:

• Completing the implementation of the Justice Housing Program, with two properties dedicated to housing female detainees on release
•  Funding for underrepresented women and girls now prioritised through both the Women in Sport and Recreation Participation and Leadership Program – and the Inclusive Grants Program
• Launch of the ‘Mind Map’ portal to support young people – including young girls – seeking mental health and well-being support in the ACT.

On 22 March, the ‘Annual Statement on the status of women and girls in the ACT’ will be delivered in the ACT Legislative Assembly, which will address some of the key issues impacting women and girls in our community.

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