Economic participation

Every person should be free to work, contribute, and go as far as their effort and ability will take them. That is the essence of gender equity—equality of opportunity. Queensland women make up a substantial share of the state's workforce and a growing proportion of its business owners. Their economic participation is not just a matter of fairness—it is a driver of Queensland's productivity, growth, and prosperity.

Initiatives

• Encourage flexible workplace practices, including shared care culture.
• Investigate improved Queensland regional childcare options and advocate to the Australian Government to improve accessibility and afford ability of childcare.
• Reduce financial barriers for women choosing to return to paid work following career breaks through the Women’s Career Grants program.
• Explore the concept of a volunteer passport to recognise skills gained in volunteering.
• Partner with industries to promote high value opportunities as career options, particularly in emerging sectors, and support skills and training pathways for women and girls.
• Advocate to the Australian Government to improve rural and regional digital connectivity as a critical input for economic development and participation.
• Equip women over 40 through personal development to return to paid work and re-establish careers with funded positions in the Jobs Academy program.
• Partner with industry bodies for better financial education for new ABN holders.

Read more about improving economic participation for Queensland women in the full strategy.