Leadership development opportunities for women

Non-government women’s organisations seeking to improve women’s leadership and participation in the community can now apply for a Capacity Building Grant under the Women’s Leadership and Development Programme.

The Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Women’s Issues, the Hon Julie Bishop MP today said eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to $25,000 to strengthen their effectiveness and increase their ability to deliver results for women.

“The Women’s Leadership and Development Programme (WLDP) is a Howard Government initiative, which aims to increase women’s participation in all aspects of Australian life,” Minister Bishop said.

“More than 80 projects have been funded since the WLDP commenced in 2001, providing real outcomes and sustainable benefits for women, such as the establishment of a board for young businesswomen by Business and Professional Women Australia, offering young women training, mentoring and practical experience in directorship roles.

“Another project established branches of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association in South Australia and the Northern Territory, to support women to participate in the Local Government sector.

“In 2006-07, priority will be given to projects which support new and developing organisations to build their sustainability and their ability to undertake projects that assist women in the longer-term.

“The Australian Government has committed a total of $250,000 to the 2006-07 WLDP Capacity Building Grants and I encourage all eligible organisations to submit an application.”

The call for applications to the 2006-07 Women’s Leadership and Development Programme Capacity Building Grants commences on 11 November 2006 and closes on 15 December 2006.

Further information and copies of the application documentation are available by calling 1800 808 863, emailing women (women@fahcsia.gov.au)