COSBOA CEO Skye Cappuccio explains why this program gives small businesses a practical blueprint, not just a policy statement.
The federal government is putting an extra $4 million into a small business program aimed at helping women build careers in industries where they’re significantly outnumbered.
The funding goes to She Means, a national initiative run by the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), as part of a broader $28.5 million extension to the government’s Advancing Gender Equality in Gender Segregated Industries program.
She Means began as a pilot backed by $2 million in government funding, working with 30 small businesses to test what improves female workforce participation, retention and career progression in male-dominated sectors. That phase produced a general toolkit, including HR templates, infographics and policy guidance, along with industry-specific materials developed through research and testing.
The new funding extends the program for a further two years and scales it from 30 businesses to 120. Participants will go through a six-month program with tailored support to implement workplace improvements, with an independent evaluation tracking outcomes over the longer term.
Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles said the investment reflected a broader economic goal. “Supporting women’s workforce participation is good for women, good for businesses and good for Australia’s economy,” he said.
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Amanda Rishworth said the program was designed around evidence rather than broad gestures. “Our government is investing in practical, evidence based solutions that work for small businesses and help them attract, retain and support talented women,” she said.
COSBOA CEO Skye Cappuccio said the expanded program gives small businesses something they can actually put to use. “This innovative program will build women’s confidence, capability and skills across the country, while providing small businesses with a practical blueprint for attracting, retaining and supporting women in the workplace,” she said.
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