Women in Business - Future Voices 2024

The following topics have been identified by the NT Chamber's Women in Business Network.

Closing the Gender Pay Gap: Despite progress in some areas, a significant wage disparity persists between men and women in the NT. This gap is often wider in remote and rural areas, particularly in industries dominated by male workers such as mining and construction.

Keeping Women Safe: The safety of women encompasses various facets, including addressing gender-based violence, enhancing security measures in public spaces, ensuring access to safe transportation, and promoting women's empowerment initiatives.

Economic Disadvantage Facing Women and Children: In the Northern Territory, economic challenges for women and children are intensified by cultural, social and systemic barriers. Indigenous women and those in remote areas face significant hurdles in accessing education and employment, compounded by lack of services like childcare and healthcare. Traditional roles often limit women to unstable, low-paying jobs, perpetuating poverty and restricting growth. Addressing these issues requires targeted, equitable interventions.

Childcare Accessibility: Access to affordable and reliable childcare is a significant issue, particularly in remote areas. This can limit employment options for women and affect their ability to return to work or take on full time roles.

Underrepresentation in Certain Sectors: Women are underrepresented in several key sectors such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and in trades and technical roles. This underrepresentation can limit economic diversity and personal choice for women in the workforce.

We have received the following responses so far: 

Minister Kate Worden 

Member for Brennan Ms Marie Calre Boothby