Port Hedland to host forum to promote business opportunities for women

22/8/94

A forum designed to help women interested in starting or expanding a business will be held in Port Hedland in September.

Minister for Women's Interests Cheryl Edwardes said the forum, to be held on September 5, was part of the Women and Economic Independence strategy developed by the State Government to promote economic independence for women.

"Women are moving into small businesses in increasing numbers, and already comprise over 30 per cent of Western Australia's small business owners," Mrs Edwardes said.

"To assist and encourage women outside the metropolitan area to start or expand a business, the Office of Women's Interests, the Small Business Development Corporation and the Departments of Commerce and Trade and Training are conducting a series of public forums in major regional areas.

"Because many women report a lack of available finance as the main barrier they confront when starting a business, the forums are designed to provide participants with information on how to access finance."

Speakers will include representatives of metropolitan and local financiers, accountants, business associations and State Government agencies, as well as successful local businesswomen.

"The first forum, held earlier this year in Albany, was a great success, attracting three times the anticipated audience," Mrs Edwardes said.

The Port Hedland forum will be chaired by Joan Roberts, Director of Community Development, Town of Port Hedland.

"This function is part of the Government's commitment to fostering women's economic independence which in turn gives women choices in their lives as well a providing benefits to the community as a whole," the Minister said.

Information on the Port Hedland forum, and on those planned for other areas of the State, can be obtained from Ms Jill Pyvis at the Office of Women's Interests on (09) 264 1920, Port Hedland residents can also contact Ms Kerry Derschow, Quality Inn, on (091) 732 335.

Media contact:   Ann Paterson  (09)  264 1907