Austrade & Tech Council of Australia Support Women in Tech Through Leadership Workshop

• Austrade and the Tech Council of Australia organized a Women in Leadership Networking and Workshop
• 41 industry professionals engaged in thought-provoking discussions on breaking down these barriers and fostering inclusive business environments
• Workshop centred on key strategies for cross-cultural trade, expanding professional networks, and enhancing leadership capabilities to drive business success in global markets

At a recent leadership forum, 41 industry professionals engaged in thought-provoking discussions led by Dara Williams, Austrade’s Deputy CEO of Policy & Programs, and Dr. Sandy Chong, Principal of Verity Consulting and Chair of the ASEAN Business Alliance. Austrade and the Tech Council of Australia organized a Women in Leadership Networking and Workshop Lunch, bringing together industry leaders to strategize on breaking down these barriers and fostering inclusive business environments. The conversation explored key future trends, including the increasing financial influence of women over the next decade and its broader economic impact.

Discussions focused on emerging trends and opportunities, including the anticipated rise in women’s wealth over the next decade and its impact on financial markets. The conversation also emphasized the importance of engaging men in gender equity initiatives to drive meaningful changes and foster inclusive leadership.

The event served as a catalyst for redefining industry norms accelerating the growth of female leaders and entrepreneurs. This year’s workshop centred on key strategies for cross-cultural trade, expanding professional networks, and enhancing leadership capabilities to drive business success in global markets.

The forum discussed critical issues around introducing quotas to boost female leadership within the start-up ecosystem, expanding targeted financial support, empowering women in STEM and technology-driven businesses, and cultivating a business mindset that normalizes risk-taking and embraces failure as stepping stones to growth and success.

Despite ongoing conversations around gender quality, leadership diversity in Australia’s mining sector remains stagnant. Findings from Chief Executive Women (CEW) indicate that men still hold 91% of CEO roles in the country’s top ASX-listed mining companies. This data signals an urgent call for industry reforms and proactive measures for foster more inclusive executive leadership.