I am a passionate believer in the value that gender diversity and inclusion bring to the workplace.

A gender diverse workforce, inclusive of all backgrounds, genders, and identities, is not just a
moral imperative but a strategic advantage. As a leader, I’ve witnessed this drive greater staff
engagement, agility, accountability, productivity, innovation and enhanced service delivery and
performance.

At North Metropolitan TAFE, it’s our collective responsibility to ensure every individual, regardless
of gender, feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and
talents. This commitment goes beyond quotas; it’s about fostering an inclusive workplace where
everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.

We are dedicated to creating psychologically safe, respectful workplaces with flexible practices
that meet work-life demands and equal opportunities from hiring to promotions. But we must do
more.

I know that to achieve true gender equity requires intentional, sustained, and collaborative
action. I am proud of the initiatives at the College to build inclusive policies, continually refining
them to eliminate unconscious bias and create a supportive and inclusive environment.

We’ve developed a comprehensive strategy to reduce the gender wage gap focussing on systemic
changes in onboarding, promoting women to leadership and actively recruiting women into
professionally isolated areas. This aligns with our efforts to encourage women in career pathways
that will benefit the next generation of female leaders.

Investing in development opportunities that empower staff of all genders to grow is crucial,
particularly enhancing the talent for women in executive roles. Whilst we have excelled in
achieving gender parity with our Corporate Leadership group, we are addressing remaining
disparities.

We hold ourselves accountable, celebrating successes and learning from challenges with
genuine curiosity. Actively seeking and acting on employee feedback is vital, reflected in
initiatives like our Workforce Diversification and Inclusion Plan, our climate surveys and the
implementation of our Caring Culture Consultative Committee which will provide a pipeline of
consultation and advice.

I am committed to driving gender equity through organisational initiatives that reduce gender
disparity, drive inclusivity, and create a culture of valuing and accountability. Joining CEOs for
Gender Equity underscores my broad commitment to this cause through uniting with fellow
leaders so that we can champion positive societal change. Together we can make a brighter
future.