The Andrews Labor Government is boosting the number of Aboriginal women in leadership positions through a new development program.

Minister for Women and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins announced $300,000 in funding for the new leadership program at a fundraising event for The Long Walk today.

Aboriginal women are currently under-represented in leadership roles in Victoria. While leadership development programs are vital to promoting more women into decision-making positions, most are not located near Aboriginal communities.

Today’s funding will allow Leadership Victoria to co-design a leadership program specifically with and for Aboriginal women.

The program will ensure Aboriginal women lead decision-making on the programs that impact their lives and communities.

It will also build on Aboriginal women’s unique strengths and potential, to inspire and engage young women leaders for the future.

The Long Walk is a not-for-profit organisation that advocates for the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal Australians.

It was started by former AFL player Michael Long, who in 2004 made a historic 650 kilometre trek from his home in Melbourne to Parliament House in Canberra to raise awareness of the issues confronting Aboriginal people.

Funding for the new women’s leadership program is part of Victoria’s gender equality strategy, Safe and Strong.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“The Andrews Labor Government is working to get more Aboriginal women on boards and in leadership positions.”

“Aboriginal women should be the decision makers on the programs and organisations that impact their lives and communities. This goes to the heart of self-determination.”