The Federal Government is inviting Australia’s ‘board ready’ women to apply for Commonwealth backed scholarships aimed at increasing the number of women in the nation’s boardrooms.

 

Federal Minister for the Status of Women, Julie Collins, and the Australian Institute of Company Directors have called for applications for 70 places in the second round of the Board Diversity Scholarship Program.

 

The Federal Government is providing $225,000 towards the second round of scholarships, with the AICD providing a matching contribution.

 

“This new round of scholarships aims to build on the success of the Board Diversity Program to create change in our nation’s boardrooms,” Ms Collins said.

 

“Recent Company Directors’ data shows women comprise 14.5 per cent of directors and three per cent of chairpersons in the nation’s top 200 companies.

 

“These are the highest figures ever – but Australia remains well behind other OECD countries when it comes to women’s participation on corporate boards.

 

“Australian women are continuing to be excluded from major decision-making roles.”

 

The scholarships are open to all Australian women. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, culturally and linguistically diverse women, women from rural and regional communities, women with disabilities and women working in the not for profit sector, are particularly encouraged to apply.

 

Applications for the second round of Board Diversity Scholarships close on 11 October.

 

For more information or to apply for the Scholarship program, visit www.companydirectors.com.au/diversityscholarship