Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Regional Development) (09:54): I rise today to speak on the impactful WILD, Women in Local Democracy, meet-the-candidates forum I attended recently, and it was a very well attended forum, I must say. It was inspiring to meet 13 female candidates from nine wards across the Geelong region and to hear them passionately share their views and aspirations. Women are exceptional leaders, and together we must champion the leaders of tomorrow not just in government but across every facet of Victorian life and society. The WILD forum highlighted the crucial need to support and encourage women to stand for office at all levels of government – local, state and federal. It truly embodies the goals we strive to achieve in our pursuit of gender equality. I commend all those women who are rising to the challenge of making a difference. Our Equal State 2023–2027 is a vital gender equality strategy and action plan that keeps us on the right path here in Victoria, guiding our efforts both now and into the future. While we recognise that gender equality remains a work in progress, each step forward is significant. We cannot afford to lose momentum. A special shout-out to the WILD convener Jenny Wills OAM. In 2008 Jenny was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women, recognising her lifelong pioneering work and outstanding contributions to women’s rights. A heartfelt thankyou to WILD organisers and participants for making the event such a fantastic success. Your dedication to advancing gender equality is truly inspiring.
Category: Parliament
