AS the first Victorian Parliament to achieve gender parity, the Allan Labor government is delivering policies and initiatives that reflect the diverse needs and interests of the community.<\/p>\n
With women making up over 50 per cent of the Cabinet, their leadership is shaping the changes being driven, ensuring that women’s voices are at the forefront of decision-making.<\/p>\n
Every day, Bellarine MP Alison Marchant meets incredible women who give back to the community, volunteering their time and energy to make the Bellarine the best it can be.<\/p>\n
Alison also meets passionate businesswomen who have taken the leap to start their own ventures, building success from the ground up and strengthening the local economy.<\/p>\n
Last year, the Minister for Small Business visited the Bellarine and participated in a roundtable discussion focused on women in small business across the region.<\/p>\n
It was a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from local business owners about the challenges they face and to explore how the state government, through Business Victoria, can better support them and their businesses.<\/p>\n
The conversation covered a number of important areas, including red tape reform, workforce and skills development, finance and mentoring, technology, business growth and the experiences of women in business.<\/p>\n
Alison thanked Marie-Claire from the Q-Train, Leanne from Jericho Pottery, Amanda from Gemaxis, Mel from Ducks Nuts, Bianca from Bellarine Tan and Glam and Nexus Excavation, Mira from St Leonards Hairdressing and Alyssa from Bellarine Wholefoods, who took time out of their busy schedules to meet with the her and the minister.<\/p>\n
She also thanked Sarah from Bellarine Smokehouse and Providore in Drysdale for providing a beautiful venue for the event.<\/p>\n
“These are just a few of the incredible women on the Bellarine who are outstanding business leaders, creating opportunities, delivering quality local services and contributing to the region’s prosperity,” Alison said.<\/p>\n
“Their innovation, resilience and determination continue to inspire the next generation of women and girls considering careers in business and leadership.<\/p>\n
“It has also been fantastic to see the Small Business Bus travelling across our region and throughout Victoria, bringing free, expert advice directly to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n
“From business planning and cashflow management to marketing, compliance and staffing, this tailored support ensures local businesses can access practical guidance at no cost.”<\/p>\n
Alison is immensely proud to be part of a government that champions women and is paving the way for a brighter, more equal future for everyone.<\/p>\n
This International Women’s Day, Alison celebrates the many women who make the Bellarine community stronger.<\/p>\n
Each year, she sees more women and girls stepping into leadership roles across community organisations, emergency services, schools and workplaces, and is confident this momentum will continue to grow.<\/p>\n
Together, she said, the community is creating a safer, healthier and more equal future for all.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
AS the first Victorian Parliament to achieve gender parity, the Allan Labor government is delivering policies and initiatives that reflect the diverse needs and interests of the community. With women making up over 50 per cent of the Cabinet, their leadership is shaping the changes being driven, ensuring that women’s voices are at the forefront […]<\/p>\n