The Andrews Labor Government is empowering young women to become leaders in their communities, workplaces and organisations through the Joan Kirner Young and Emerging Women Leaders program.

Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins today called on young Victorian women to apply for the leadership development scholarship.

The scholarship is delivered in partnership with Leadership Victoria and is open to women in Victoria between the ages of 18 and 40.

It is designed to give them the essential skills, networks and experiences they need to achieve their leadership goals.

The program is in its second year and has already provided training, workshops, mentoring and networking activities to 21 women.

The scholarship honours the legacy of the late Joan Kirner AC, Victoria’s first and only female premier.

Women are invited to apply in one of the following categories, each reflecting one of Joan’s passions:

• education
• environment
• women’s health
• western suburbs of Melbourne
• Aboriginal women’s leadership
• culturally diverse women’s leadership

For further information or to apply, visit www.vic.gov.au/women.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins

“The Andrews Labor Government is supporting women to reach their full potential. If you’re a young woman who wants to be a leader in your field we want to hear from you.”

“We are proud to continue this initiative in honour of Joan Kirner, a leader who forged a path for so many women in Victoria.”

“Through policies such as quotas for paid government boards, we have created more leadership opportunities for women so training like this is essential to make the most of these opportunities.”