7 March 2018: Two influential female public leaders will discuss sex discrimination, feminist action and the role of women in the military at an ‘In Conversation’ event to be held on the eve of International Women’s Day at the University of Canberra.
Australia’s first female Governor-General, the Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO and former sex discrimination commissioner Elizabeth Broderick AO have played a pivotal role in changing Australia’s workplace culture and social attitudes around gender equality.
In this discussion, which will be moderated by Director of the University’s 50/50 by 2030 Foundation Virginia Haussegger AM, Dame Quentin and Ms Broderick will discuss sexual harassment and the #MeToo movement, pregnancy discrimination, and the role of women in the military and their role in frontline combat positions.
They will also address some of the milestones in Australia’s women’s movement, from grassroots activism to world leading legislative reform.
“International Women’s Day is a moment for all of us to pause and reflect on gender equality, and celebrate what’s been achieved,” Ms Haussegger said.
“We are delighted to bring together two of Australia’s foremost feminists, public servants and former sex discrimination commissioners in this spirited discussion.
“Australia has been a significant player in international discussions that have had a profound impact on the rights of women and girls. However, none of us can wait the 170 years the World Economic Forum estimates it will take to achieve economic gender equality, so new thinking is needed,” she added.
The University’s 50/50 by 2030 Foundation is firmly focused on empowering gender equality in the region through ground-breaking national surveys, leadership programs and its BroadAgenda blog.
The University of Canberra will also celebrate the day with a morning tea to be held on campus on Thursday, 8 March. The event will include speeches by inspirational Canberra women including Ms Haussegger, University of Canberra Director of Sport Carrie Graf, Care Australia CEO Sally Moyle and PhD candidate Hayley Teasdale.
WHAT: Virginia Haussegger ‘In Conversation’ with Dame Quentin Bryce and Elizabeth Broderick. Please note this is an invitation-only event.
WHEN: Wednesday 7 March, 6pm – 8pm
WHERE: Ann Harding Conference Centre, Building 24, University of Canberra (campus map)
Contact the University of Canberra media team:
Claudia Doman: 0408 826 362
Antony Perry: 0434 795 919