State Government to offer support to women returning to work

The State Government is offering women wanting to work a free online financial literacy and start-up course.

The State Government has launched a program through TAFE aimed at supporting women entering the workforce. Picture: Dan Himbrechts.

The State Government is offering women wanting to work a free online financial literacy and start-up course.

The $5.85 million TAFE Women Entrepreneur Series will support women who want to enter or re-enter the workforce from July.

Speaking at the Business Women in Western Sydney forum in Penrith today, Premier Gladys Berejiklian said supporting women in the workforce needs to be a priority.

“It is important the NSW Liberals and Nationals Government continues to find new ways to support employment opportunities for women, particularly in areas such as small business, where women are under-represented,” Ms Berejiklian said.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said women should be supported in entering the workplace. Picture: Dan Himbrechts

“We know that just 28 per cent of small business owners in NSW are female and we recognise that sometimes, the complexity of establishing a business and gaining access to finance can be an obstacle.”

Mulgoa state Liberal MP Tanya Davies, who also serves as the Minister for Women, said women face unique challenges when starting their own business and that needs to be recognised.

NSW Minister for Mental Women Tanya Davies said it is paramount that women feel supported when entering or re-entering the workforce. Picture: Joel Carrett

“Women make up around 68 per cent of all primary carers in NSW so when starting a new business many face challenges securing start-up finance, especially if they have taken a break from paid employment,” Mrs Davies said.

“This program will give women a head start by educating them on how to apply for finance and how other women juggle family responsibilities while running a business.”

The 2019 Business Women in Western Sydney forum was held at Penrith Panthers and featured guests such as Penrith businesswomen Sophie Musumeci, Dr Raji Ambikairajah and Melissa Browne.