Page 502 - Week 02 - Tuesday, 8 March 2011

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so for a century women across the globe have celebrated and reflected on the work they have achieved. The ACT government, along with many organisations and groups across the community, are holding events and functions to ensure that the milestone anniversary is celebrated and recognised. I note that at two events—yesterday at the ACT international awards and this morning at the Women’s Services Network breakfast—Meredith Hunter and Amanda Bresnan were also present.

Yesterday at the ACT government International Women’s Day award ceremony I not only announced the successful winners—there were some fabulous local women—but I also launched the ACT women’s honour roll. The honour roll is a collection of 100 inspirational and dedicated women who have had a significant impact on the Canberra community. That honour roll is just one of the many ways that we, as a community, are celebrating and acknowledging the remarkable women of Canberra, past and present, and ensuring that their legacy and contributions are remembered for years to come.

On Friday, I will be hosting a lunch at CIT of girls from our local colleges who have demonstrated leadership and positive advocacy for their peers and for their community. This event is an opportunity for us to foster and recognise the leaders of tomorrow and share with them the stories of the past.

There are also opportunities for me to meet with many women and groups. Yesterday, for example, in the Assembly I had the pleasure of launching the solace in song CD for the Multicultural Women’s Alliance.

These events are just part of the broad range of activities being held over today and the week. As I have noted, International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the successes to date and to reflect on the work that is yet to be achieved. (Time expired.)

MS HUNTER: A supplementary, Mr Speaker.

MR SPEAKER: Yes, Ms Hunter.

MS HUNTER: Minister, given that one of the major issues raised on International Women’s Day was pay equity in the community sector, once the case is decided will you support funding for the increase in wages?

MS BURCH: I value the work of the community sector. They are strong partners here in the work that we do. The ACT government has provided a response and a submission to Fair Work Australia. I think that submission outlines the value that we place in the community sector. We are looking forward to the decision by Fair Work Australia. The ACT, along with all other jurisdictions, will then consider how it is best to respond to it, but there is work continuing between not only DHCS but also the Office of Industrial Relations about how we are best placed to respond once those decisions are made.

Mr Stanhope: I ask that further questions be placed on the notice paper.


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