The Andrews Labor Government is backing more Victorian business women to become leaders and expand trade with international markets.

Victoria has an enviable exports record and extensive trade programs, yet the number of women as trade delegates has historically remained low at 22 per cent.

Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins today addressed a gathering of senior women executives and business leaders as part of the Victorian Women in International Business initiative.

The initiative is one way the Labor Government is boosting the state’s international trade performance through increased female participation, with the first seminar focused on opportunities for women in the Asian export industry.

The initiative promotes opportunities for women in Victoria to make new connections, develop partnerships in exports, deliver targeted workshops, events and training programs.

The Government will host the first all-women trade delegation to China this year, with a focus on trade and investment in the fields of entrepreneurship, innovation and technology.

For more information about the Victorian Women in International Business initiative, visit trade.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins

“The Andrews Labor Government is championing women in business because we know there’s huge economic benefit to gender equality.”  

 “We’re supporting initiatives like this because it creates a space for women to become vital – and visible – players in our state’s economic productivity.”