Advancing Women project

Australia’s Gender Equality Scorecard 2022 confirms what we all already know – women remain underrepresented in decision-making roles. Concerningly, the same scorecard makes no reference to the underrepresentation of women with disability, not only in the workplace, but in those same leadership roles.

Women with disability are yet to be considered in the nationwide debate on gender and workplace equality. The Advancing Women project is here to place representation of women with disability in decision-making roles on the national agenda. The project creates access and opportunities for women who are willing and ready to lead.

About the project

People with Disability Australia created Advancing Women as a project that seeks to improve outcomes for women, girls, feminine-identifying and non-binary people with disability in Australia across leadership representation and workforce participation and safety. Funded by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, this project looks to break down the barriers to participation in leadership and decision-making roles, creating access and opportunities for women with disability who are ready and willing to lead. The project aims to engage the hearts and minds of organisations and individuals who can help build a more employable future for all women with disability.

The project and training team comprise women and gender diverse people with lived experience and subject matter expertise from regional and metro areas. The team is supported and directed by an Expert Advisory Group and Co-design Advisory Panel to gain a genuine understanding of barriers and enablers to leadership representation.

The Advancing Women project delivers practical, co-designed education and mentorship activities:

1. An educational program for employer organisations designed to educate a disability confident workforce and promote workplace participation and safety for women with disability.
2. A mentor program for women with disability to support sustainable leadership, networking and career confidence and progression.

Advancing Women Mid-Project Report

The Advancing Women with Disability in the Workplace project running from January 2023 to July 2026, is being delivered in phased stages. This mid-project report outlines the activities and outcomes of Phases 2 and 3, focusing on the pilot program delivery in partnership with one national organisation.

Feedback has been overwhelming positive. Mentees valued the safe space and practical support, while mentors gained fresh insight into inclusive leadership.

The next phase launches in August 2025, with more partners, updated learning tools and new opportunities for connection.

Needs Assessment & Gap Analysis Report

The Advancing Women with Disability in the Workplace: Needs Assessment & Gap Analysis Report explores the barriers to employment and leadership for women with disability. 

The report reveals significant barriers and challenges for women with disabilities in the workplace.

The recommendations presented in the report offer a roadmap for advancing the participation and leadership of women with disabilities through the next phases of this project. By implementing the recommended strategies, we can take meaningful steps towards creating a more inclusive and equitable environment.

Get in touch

To find out more about the Advancing Women project or to ask any questions, please email the project officer at training@pwd.org.au or call 1800 422 015.

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