Women demanding a fair go at work

Queensland women are now a step closer to getting a fair-go at work, spurred on by a recent series of free workplace negotiation skills workshops.

Over 240 women have attended 12 workshops held across the state.

Minister for Women Margaret Keech said the women attending the free workshops are now more confident to ask for better work conditions.

“Women have the right to fair pay, working conditions and work-life balance. These workshops provided hands-on negotiation skills training to help women achieve this,” Mrs Keech said.

“And since the introduction of WorkChoices, it’s more important than ever for women to have these skills. More than three out of five AWAs abolish penalty rates, and more than four out of five reduce or remove overtime pay.

“Women signing an Australian Workplace Agreement (AWA) with their employer need to know how to bargain for their pay and conditions,” Mrs Keech said.

Workshop participants felt more confident about taking control of their work situation.

“It was useful to realise our power as an employee,” said one Brisbane workshop participant.

“The workshop gave me the confidence to approach my manager,” said another Brisbane woman.

“It was a great opportunity to network. Talking to other members of the workshop group socially gave me the knowledge and tips,” said one Townsville participant.

“I learnt to be more prepared before negotiating,” said a participant from Mackay.

The workshops were hosted by the Queensland Government Office for Women in conjunction with the Queensland Working Women’s service.

Media contacts: Joanna Whitaker 3224 2005 or Olivia Nemeth (OFW) 3224 2295