Together we're strong

A powerful coalition of women is making equality a talking point in the lead-up to the next federal election.

- ANGUS FONTAINE

They’ve come together as many voices, but with a united call to arms: women are the key to unlocking Australia’s vast potential at the 2022 federal election. Today, chatting and laughing with The Weekly at Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden, the Women for Progress are, like the flora around them, reaching for the sky. One of Australia’s greatest philanthropists, Nicola Forrest, has brought them together. Iconic feminist Wendy McCarthy, a sprightly 80, has convened their meetings. They are women of all ages, creeds and beliefs. Yet, they say, they represent all women.

This think tank has met secretly for months, but is now going public with a vision for a nation where children and their parents are genuinely supported, where women have greater choice in participating in the workforce, where those who work in our care economy are appropriately valued, where women can live safe from violence, and where diverse female leadership is supported. These women are not running for parliament, but their message is for politicians of all persuasions.