Show your support for International Women’s Day

Published on 06 March 2017

Mildura Rural City Council is calling on the community to support International Women’s Day this Wednesday as part of a broader push to achieve better outcomes for women.

While the World Economic Forum predicts the gender gap won’t close entirely until 2186, this is simply too long to wait, which makes events like International Women’s Day vitally important to raise awareness and achieve ground-breaking action.

Council constantly strives to close this gender gap, with more than half of the organisation’s workforce now women.

The organisation’s status as a White Ribbon-accredited workplace is another major step towards ensuring a gender inclusive community, not only protecting women from violence, but empowering them to be change-leaders, both within the organisation and the broader community.

Councillor for Community Wellbeing and Services Ali Cupper said Council encourages equity in all areas of the organisation, including ensuring women are paid the same amount as their male counterparts. 

She said it was also about raising awareness about the amazing work women do in unpaid roles in the community and within their own family units.

As part of this push for equity, Council staff will be encouraged to wear something with a touch of green, purple and white on Wednesday to show their support for International Women’s Day, and for their female colleagues, friends and family.

“This is a good way to raise awareness within Council and the broader community of the gender gap that still exists, and how far we still have to go,” Cr Cupper said.

“It’s also a great way to celebrate the achievements of women across a broad range of areas, including the social, economic, cultural and political spheres.”

Cr Cupper said while Council would be doing its part in a very visual way to support International Women’s Day, the broader community could also do its part.

“You can show your support by taking a photo of the important women in your life and sharing on social media with the hashtag #BeBoldForChange,” she said.

“By participating in these and other activities on International Women’s Day it promotes the importance of developing respective and positive relationships with women throughout our community.”

Media enquiries 
Ben Piscioneri
p) (03) 5018 8689 
e) ben.piscioneri@mildura.vic.gov.au