Labor Women from all over Australia met in Brisbane on14-15 May 2011 for the National ALP Women’s Conference.
Participants were welcomed by the Premier the Hon Anna Bligh MP who also acknowledged the many interstate and Federal members of Parliament who attended.
It was a weekend of remembering the gains of the past, the current work being done by the ALP and plans for the future.
Topics covered included Labor women’s history, international justice for women, women in political campaigns and pay equity.
Delegates heard how Labor had introduced Paid Parental Leave and had committed more than $20 billion in funding for early childhood education and child care. Women’s economic security has also been boosted through the Fair Work Act 2009 and superannuation reforms. Funding of the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency has also been doubled.
Minister for the Status of Women, the Hon Kate Ellis MP, outlined Labor’s commitment to protecting the lives of women and children in the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children. This is a 10 year plan that has the formal support of all State and Territory governments with $90 million already committed to several initiatives.
However, Dr Anne Summers reminded the conference that as a veteran of the women’s movement, there was more work to be done. Her outline of her work for women clearly showed that Labor governments consistently deliver better outcomes for women.
It was also great to see several members of the Annerley Branch (pictured) attending the Conference as part of various delegations. For more information, please email info@annerleylabor.org
Sasha Marin is a Vice President of the Annerley Branch
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