Western Australian women get their say at upcoming symposium

Women's Interests Minister Robyn McSweeney's newly established Women's Advisory Council (WA), will host its first ever symposium on June 14 to explore issues directly affecting Western Australian women.

Keynote speakers include leadership and change management expert Anne Riches - recently named Australia's top speaker for 2010, Kellie Benda executive director and proprietor of Marvic Packaging Australia and June Oscar chief executive officer, Marninwarntikura Women's Resource Centre.

'Women of the 21st century will explore issues facing women today in the areas of leadership roles; economic security; stereotyping of women by the media; training and workforce development; education and small business," Mrs McSweeney said.

"The symposium is an opportunity for Western Australian women to directly express their ideas and concerns on a broad range of issues about what affects them most.

"By getting involved in the symposium, not only will women hear from others what issues are important to them, it will be an opportunity to get involved in the shaping of relevant Government policies.

The Minister said the Women's Advisory Council hosting the symposium was made up of professional women from Government and non-government backgrounds. The council, which is chaired by Maria Saraceni, included representation from women's service organisations such as the National Council for Women, Country Women's Association and Zonta International.

"I am looking forward to hearing the opinions of all delegates and I am sure many innovative suggestions will come out of this symposium," she said.

"I encourage women from all backgrounds to attend this unique event."

To join the Women's Advisory Council members and ensure the State Government receives feedback on important issues impacting Western Australian women, interested individuals can secure their place at the symposium by registering online at http://www.wacs2010.com.au