Gender targets can help to grow Queensland economy

The Palaszczuk Government’s target for 50 percent women on all Government boards by 2020 is a key plank in a broad strategy to harness the hidden powerhouse of the Queensland economy, its women.

Minister for Women, Shannon Fentiman, will outline the economic potential of greater gender diversity in a keynote speech to the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) Women in Leadership: Courage and Change event in Brisbane today.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk yesterday announced a target of 50 percent female representation on Queensland Government boards by 2020.

Minister Fentiman said the Government had also agreed a target of 50 percent of all new appointees to all Queensland Government bodies to be women. 

“Having more diversity on boards is good business sense and this is reflected in the bottom line of companies with women at the top table,” Ms Fentiman said.

“Frankly, it’s a disgrace that there are more men named Peter in CEO or chair positions in our top 200 companies across Australia than there are women.

“I believe that here in Queensland, we can lead the way as a strong voice for women in leadership roles across the workforce, while increasing productivity and growing our economy.

“We must not miss the opportunity to recognise the huge productivity gains possible by making it easier for women to enter, remain and thrive in leadership positions.”

The targets are one element of a suite of ‘Women on Boards’ initiatives aimed at increasing women’s representation on government bodies, as well as working in partnership with the private sector to increase numbers of women on business and community boards. 

The targets will be part of a broader Women’s Strategy being developed by the Office for Women which will look at ways to break down barriers, address gender inequality and drive cultural change to ensure there are more opportunities for women – both inside and outside Government.