Emerging ECEC leaders in Vic can apply for Joan Kirner program

Victorian women aged between 22 and 40 from a variety of professional backgrounds, including early childhood education and care (ECEC) are being urged to apply for the Joan Kirner Emerging Leaders program and sharpen their leadership, management and negotiation skills.

The first round of applications for the program, which honours the legacy of the late Joan Kirner AC, Victoria’s first and only female premier, were opened recently by Victoria’s Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams.

“Systemic barriers continue to limit women’s leadership progression,” she explained. “This program supports and empowers women to develop the critical skills, networks and experience they need to advance their careers and to break down rigid stereotypes.”

Women continue to face structural barriers that prevent them from participating equally in the workforce, such as unconscious bias, gender stereotypes and a lack of workplace flexibility. The program is one of a range of initiatives designed to progress gender equality and improve women’s representation.

Participants in the program are provided with the strategies and skills they need to pursue leadership opportunities. The program’s first round is open to women across all sectors and industries while a second round, due to open in late June will focus on women employed in non-traditional and male-dominated industries, given the challenges women experience in career advancement in those industries. 

The program will support women from diverse backgrounds who can face additional barriers in leadership, and will run from 27 June to 18 November. Women will be supported to access this year’s program with reimbursements for childcare, accommodation and travel costs.

Applications for round one of the Joan Kirner Emerging Leaders Program are open to all women in Victoria aged 22 to 40, and close on Monday, 25 April. For more information or to apply, visit the website, here.