As the Women and Women’s Economic Security Minister, Fiona Simpson has an important road ahead of her in regards to remaining abreast of the challenges they face, especially in the area of domestic and family violence.
Throughout her time in Parliament as the longest-serving women in the LNP party room and following the 2015 election one of the longest-serving members of Parliament, Mrs Simpson has kept a strong focus on community empowerment and engagement, enjoying working with community leaders to identify issues and then create and deliver solutions, in addition to advocating on behalf of Queenslanders.
“As the Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, what is important to me is issues affecting women’s economic security and wellbeing cut across multiple portfolios, so this role provides the opportunity provide a lens on the issues, engage and consult with women and girls across the state, and work across government on the available solutions to advancing women where there have been traditional barriers,” she said.
Ms Simpson said while she was proud of how far women have come to address disadvantage, there were still many areas that need improvement.
“Women in Queensland still earn less than men, 15.4 per cent retire with no personal income, and one in seven women are living below the poverty line in Australia.
“We also know that older women, those aged 55 years and older are the fastest growing group at risk of homelessness.
“We are committed to delivering tangible measures to help close the gender pay gap and boost have economic security and financial freedom for women so they can afford the basic necessities, not just in the short term, but later in life too.
“It is a privilege in this role to connect with people from all walks of life.
“Recently, I had an amazing conversation with a young woman who lives with complex disabilities.
“She has set up a business to help her financial security into the future because working 9 to 5 isn’t an option.
“Her vision is bigger than herself – she wants to support other women and people living with disabilities achieve the same financial freedom and independence.
“Her commitment to find better solutions and open doors for others was truly inspiring, and highlights the positive outcomes that can be achieved when we work together.”
Through her work, Fiona Simpson has seen how Queensland women continue to face enormous challenges in careers and working life, through parenthood and families, and in later life, due to economic inequality and financial insecurity.
“Many Queensland women juggling parenting and carer roles take casual work, resulting in their average weekly total cash earnings being 32% less than that of their male counterparts.
“The economic narrative has to change for all women and there needs to be a commitment to creating an environment where every woman has the opportunity to achieve financial independence and security.
“It’s vital all people, particularly women, have access to good work opportunities or support, and affordable housing, and we are focussed on delivering better health, education, and training outcomes.
“The gender pay gap in Queensland is 12.6 per cent and more than 15 per cent of women in this state are retiring with no personal income.
“Unemployment rates are highest for women in inner regional centres (5.2 per cent), compared to women in major cities (5.1 per cent) and lowest for those in remote areas (4 per cent).
“In some regions, such as Far North Queensland, we also see longer than average job search periods for women when compared to the rest of the state.
“That’s why the Crisafulli Government is investing hundreds of millions of dollars into supporting Queensland women.”
This includes programs like the Future Women’s Jobs Academy, which is helping women across the state regain skills, build confidence, and re-enter the workforce.
There is also the Women’s Legal Service Queensland where women in distress can access legal advice and protection.
“Economic security and wellbeing are crucial, they are not just matters of fairness; they are essential for the prosperity of our entire community.
“Addressing the multitude of barriers women face requires a whole-of-government approach, including targeted support to provide access to quality healthcare, education, support services and employment and training opportunities.
“We are focused on creating an environment where Queensland women can have better economic security and financial independence, because we know the flow-on benefits are immense.
“Everyone has a role to play in recognising wonderful women who have inspired and lifted up others in the path to advancement and overcoming barriers.
“There are many great leaders in our community, particularly women who don’t push themselves forward and who do not have an official title, but they serve others through acts of courageous kindness and commitment to making a difference.
“Let’s shine a spotlight on those great women who inspire us, make sure their stories are known, and their service is respected.”
