In the lead up to International Women's Day the Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins announced a $5.5 million investment in a new Safe and Fair Workplaces for Women initiative aimed to change culture and attitudes towards women in the workplace. As part of the package Victorian Trades Hall Council will focus on prevention and will deliver safe workplaces training and conduct outreach with women workers in high-risk industries to educate them on their rights at work.
This is a crucial investment that will help drive gender equality and prevent harassment, discrimination, abuse and underpayment at work. One in three workers experienced sexual harassment in the past five years. It's necessary to change cultures to ensure women are safe, respected and know and are empowered collectively to enforce their rights at work.
As part of the package, the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be supported to work with small to medium size businesses to understand their legal obligations. The Working Women's Centre Victoria, funded Federally, will expand regional and rural outreach services for Victorian women to access legal support and services.
[Pic description: Minister Hutchins making the announcement at Trades Hall on 7 March 2025]
Read more: Chamber helps foster safe workplaces for women | Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry