A message from the Minister for Small and Family Business Andrea Michaels MP

International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on 8 March, is a global celebration of women and their social, economic, cultural and political contributions.

It recognises how far we have come, but also reflect on what we need to achieve and the opportunities which await future generations of women.

As Minister for Small and Family Business, I have had the privilege of meeting with many of the state’s passionate, powerful, and innovative businesswomen.

While their stories of overcoming challenges to find success in their fields are incredibly inspiring, we are working towards a world where gender is no barrier to achievement.

During our recent state-wide engagement with small business owners, 43 per cent of female business owners indicated that they faced gender-specific barriers.

These include discrimination, inequitable access to growth opportunities, and challenges accessing upskilling opportunities while balancing caregiving duties.

That’s why the South Australian Government established the $4 million Women in Business program to build confidence and capability in South Australia’s female business owners.

I am excited to watch participants—my peers—learn, collaborate and grow as a result of this initiative.

As part of International Women’s Day activities, the Office for Small and Family Business also spoke to five successful female business owners about gender equity and how meaningful change starts with a connected community, diversity of thought and joint action.

To learn more about our Women in Business program or to sign up, visit the Women in Business section of the Small and Family Business website.

The Hon Andrea Michaels MP, Minister for Small and Family Business.