Rural women leaders meet in Canberra
The National Rural Women's Summit held 26 - 28 June 2008 in Canberra successfully brought together 82 diverse rural, regional and remote women from across Australia. The two day Summit program and the recommendations put forward to Government addressed the themes of:
- Climate change, environment and water
- Women in decision making
- Education
- Health
- Employment and business development
- Families and children
- Community building, reconciliation and new arrivals
- Young people
- Infrastructure, transport and telecommunications
- Training and skill development
The program was facilitated by Anne Dunn (Foundation Board member) who provided excellent leadership in guiding the group process to ensure the recommendations were understood and relevant to the Federal Government. Both Minister Plibersek and Minister Burke in their respective addresses to the Summit participants noted the Prime Minister's election commitment to strengthen the capacity of rural women to participate in policy debate and provide quality advice on issues affecting rural, regional and remote communities.
The Foundation congratulates the eight Fellows who attended and contributed to the Summit. A key action from the Summit was the proposal to Government to support and fund a National Rural Women's Network, the conversation was facilitated by Alana Johnson throughout the Summit. In the final session, Darriea Turley and Robbie Sefton presented the Summit Recommendations and Communique to Government. Other fellows who attended, included: Napcia Bin Tahal, Val Lang, Cathy McGowan and current participant Debra Tsilfidis. Philippa Woodhill attended on behalf of the Foundation.
Thirteen of the women attending the Summit joined Foundation staff and Urbis consultant, Jessie Connell for a meal and conversation on the eve of the Summit. This opportunity was great for networking and to share experiences, specifically related to leadership. The information shared on this evening will feed into the Research and Evaluation Project.