Applications open today for the Future Women Jobs Academy program, aimed at boosting women’s workforce participation and economic security in NSW.

This initiative is supported by $5.8 million in funding from the NSW Government and will support 1,000 women across two years.

The free program is custom designed for each participant and aims to improve job readiness and economic security for women in NSW who are unemployed, under employed, or seeking to progress to more stable employment and a higher income.

The NSW Government is particularly focused on making sure the program provides access to women from communities that have lower workforce participation rates and face intersecting barriers to entering and progressing in the workforce.

This includes:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women (for whom applications will be considered first for acceptance into the program).

• Women from culturally diverse backgrounds

• Women with disability

• Women living in regional, rural, and remote areas Participants in the

Future Women Jobs Academy program will have access to:

• Online resources and bespoke learning hub

• Leadership masterclasses and training programs

• Professional development, coaching, and mentoring

• Jobs and Skills Fair webinars

• A two-day Leadership Summit

• Lifetime Future Women membership.

The program will be delivered by Australian company Future Women in partnership with the NSW Government.

Future Women is a proven supplier of programs that equip participating women with the necessary supports to enter, progress and succeed in paid employment, and build careers that benefit them for the long term.

Applications for the two-year program are now open and will close on 8 July 2024. For more information visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/women-nsw/future-women-jobs-academy

Quotes attributable to Maryanne Stuart MP, Member for Heathcote:

"This program is about more than just employment; it’s about building confidence, leadership skills, and a network of support for women aiming to progress in their careers. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on the women in our community."

"I encourage women from all backgrounds in our electorate to apply for this transformative program. This is a unique opportunity to gain the skills and support needed to thrive in today’s job market."

"With the support of the Future Women Jobs Academy, women in our community can overcome barriers to employment, achieve greater economic security, and inspire future generations to pursue their career aspirations."

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Jodie Harrison:

“The NSW Government is committed to fostering economic opportunity and boosting participation and empowerment for women and girls across the state.”

“It was important that this free program targeted women from diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women with disability and women living in regional, rural and remote NSW to make sure they had the opportunity to progress in paid employment and build careers.”

“A focus of this government is increasing women’s participation at all levels which contributes to reducing the gender pay gap, improving workplace cultures, and in addresses workforce shortages.”