Every year, International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated around the world on 8 March to acknowledge the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women – while also marking a call to action for accelerating gender equality.
IWD is a time to:
- celebrate women’s achievements
- raise awareness about women’s equality
- lobby for accelerated gender parity.
This year’s IWD theme is #breakthebias, a call to action to acknowledge and address bias and create positive change for women.
A world without bias and free of discrimination is diverse, equitable and inclusive. We need to challenge the behaviours that hold us back so that we can move forward with confidence.
City of Stonnington Mayor, Cr Jami Klisaris said International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of women in the workplace while also highlighting employer initiatives and support.
“We need to create flexible work structures that encourage and support women through their career journey and family work-life balance.
“By doing this we’ll create more opportunities for women to enter and thrive in leadership roles.
“International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, but think about how much further we’ve got to go to find true equality. I’m thankful for the women leaders who have helped pave the way, and excited about building the future for the leaders who will come after me,” Cr Klisaris.
Flexible working arrangements benefit everyone –workplaces where parenting, caring and domestic responsibilities are supported, allows all genders to work flexibly to promote equal division of labour at work and at home.
The City of Stonnington is currently developing its Workplace Gender Equality Action Plan that will outline its strategies and actions that support flexible working arrangements and an inclusive and respectful culture.
City of Stonnington Chief Executive Officer, Ms Jacqui Weatherill, said it is Council’s aim to provide an equitable, inclusive and flexible workforce.
“We have implemented significant initiatives to ensure women are given greater access, support and opportunities for employment.
“We know there is more to do and we’re committed to making more improvements and breaking the bias in our workplaces over the long term,” said Ms Weatherill.
In total, the City of Stonnington recruited 203 people to the organisation in 2020-2021:
- 113 women (56%) and 90 men (44%)
- Of all managers recruited 33% were women
- Of all coordinators 36% were women
- Of team leaders recruited, zero were men and five were women (100%)
- Of all general staff 56% were women.
IWD in Stonnington
- The Pipes at Prahran Square will be lit up purple, signifying justice and dignity.
- Look out for the See Opportunity video stories profiling Stonnington Women in Business across our social media channels.
