Advancing Gender Equality in Gippsland

Published on 19 May 2021

Baw Baw Shire Council will host Australia’s first Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner, Dr Niki Vincent, in a free public event next month.

Dr Vincent will discuss Victoria’s Gender Equality Act 2020, which came into effect on 31 March 2021, and its implications for the Victorian public sector, including local councils, universities, TAFEs, and other defined entities as they work towards achieving gender equality within their workplaces and service delivery.

Under the Act these agencies are required to explicitly consider and promote gender equality in their policies, programs, and services.

In a Gippsland first, Dr Vincent will speak at the West Gippsland Arts Centre at 10am on Tuesday 15 June to introduce the Act, the outcomes it seeks to achieve, and advise on best practice.

Dr Vincent was appointed Victoria’s Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner in September 2020. She has a wealth of experience in gender equality and organisational leadership, having previously served as the South Australian Commissioner for Equal Opportunity and CEO of the Leaders Institute of South Australia.

All interested members of the community are invited to attend the free event to understand more about the Gender Equality Act 2020 and learn how communities can work together to eliminate barriers to achieving gender equality and create an equitable future for all. 

The event will be held in accordance with current COVID-19 guidelines. Secure your spot by registering here. 

Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Danny Goss:

“It is widely recognised that gender equality has economic, social and health benefits for everyone in our community, and that equality is a preventative measure against family violence.

“Advancing the cause of gender equality is a shared responsibility that Council takes seriously. Under the Act, all Councils must complete a Gender Equality Action this year. I am delighted that Dr Vincent is taking the time to visit Baw Baw and provide best practice advice to Council and all other interested employers.”