INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day 2026 prompts us to reflect on the theme ‘Give to Gain’ and take action towards ‘Balancing the Scales’, recognising that everyone benefits when women and girls stand equal.<\/p>\n
Progress is driven by leaders who invest time, knowledge and care in their communities. Laura Westbrook, Director in RSM Australia’s Business Advisory division, exemplifies this approach, with an inclusive leadership style that fosters a culture where female voices are valued and contributions recognised.<\/p>\n
“As a woman in the Accounting industry, I view it as my responsibility to model these values, in how I show up at work and in my community,” Laura says.<\/p>\n
Laura began her career at RSM Australia as a graduate, growing her expertise alongside enduring relationships with clients and colleagues. Her journey from graduate to Director serves as an inspiration for women and girls in Ballarat aspiring to leadership in the local business community.<\/p>\n
Today, she advises privately owned businesses, families and not-for-profit organisations, offering practical guidance across taxation, strategic outsourcing, cloud accounting and business advisory services.<\/p>\n
Known for her approachable manner, Laura leads with calm and consideration, valuing teamwork, inclusivity and open communication. She creates supportive environments that encourage confidence and contribution, earning trust as an adviser and respect as a leader within RSM and the broader community. By demonstrating fairness and encouragement, Laura inspires women and girls to drive collective progress.<\/p>\n
RSM Australia has supported Australian businesses for more than a century, blending global expertise with local insight. With a strong presence in regional communities, the firm focuses on long-term partnerships and practical advice tailored to middle-market and privately owned businesses. Laura’s close connection to the Ballarat business community is integral to RSM’s relationship-driven approach.<\/p>\n
Through her visible leadership and community engagement, Laura helps balance the scales, ensuring more women have pathways to leadership and community impact.<\/p>\n
Beyond her professional role, Laura volunteers on not-for-profit boards and committees, supporting organisations with financial insight, governance experience and strategic thinking. Her contributions strengthen decision-making and long-term sustainability, and by championing women’s involvement, she directly supports the advancement of women and girls for a more equitable future.<\/p>\n
Laura’s volunteering demonstrates the importance of ‘giving to gain’ and the impact professionals can have as both leaders and volunteers. She believes, “Good outcomes are built through trust, open dialogue and shared understanding.”<\/p>\n
Her commitment to giving time and skills to organisations that play vital roles in the community results in stronger organisations, better-supported communities and a shared appreciation of service.<\/p>\n
By celebrating Laura Westbrook, we honour a businesswoman whose leadership is defined by consistency, contribution and care. Her story shows that meaningful progress often comes from quietly giving time and expertise where it’s needed most, and that the greatest gains are shared by many. Laura’s actions, both at work and in the community, offer a blueprint for balancing the scales for women and girls, making her a role model whose influence extends far beyond her own achievements.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day 2026 prompts us to reflect on the theme ‘Give to Gain’ and take action towards ‘Balancing the Scales’, recognising that everyone benefits when women and girls stand equal. Progress is driven by leaders who invest time, knowledge and care in their communities. Laura Westbrook, Director in RSM Australia’s Business Advisory division, exemplifies […]<\/p>\n