The Federal Coalition Government will invest more than $94,000 for the project The Exchange: A Meeting of Minds, an Exchange of Ideas to support women and girls as part of the Women’s Leadership and Development Program.

Run by New England North West Health, the project will aim to make a positive impact on the advancement of women into leadership roles in rural areas.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the project will deliver nine events to rural and regional women in six locations including Armidale and Tamworth but also Toowoomba, Gatton/Ipswich, Narrabri and Moree, empowering attendees to take the next step in their careers regardless of age, industry, or geographical location.

Mr Joyce said the Coalition Government was delivering grassroots funding to enhance women’s safety and economic security.

“The team at New England North West Health undertake vital work in our community, so I am delighted to have secured this funding,” Mr Joyce said.

“Every dollar invested in the Meeting of Minds project will help build a safer, more prosperous future for women and girls.”

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the Program has a clear focus on boosting women’s employment opportunities and supporting women’s safety.

“40,000 Australian women are expected to benefit from these important projects, including women from diverse backgrounds and those at high risk of long‑term unemployment”, Minister Payne said.

“Opportunities will be created for women to up-skill and enter traditionally male-dominated industries including non-traditional trades, aviation, construction and coding as well as progress to leadership positions.”

The Women’s Leadership and Development Program was further expanded in the 2021-22 Budget by $38.3 million to continue to fund innovative projects that will improve outcomes for women.  

(ENDS)