Exploring Security and Economic Implications
Scheduled for Friday, 29 May 2026, a public hearing will focus on gender equality at Parliament House, Canberra. The Human Rights Subcommittee of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade organises this event to explore gender equality as a national and economic security imperative. The hearing is set to begin at 8:45 am and end at 1:15 pm.
Insights from key advocacy groups, researchers, and development agencies will be featured during the hearing. Notable participants include the National Women’s Alliances, the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at ANU, the Australian Council for International Development, and Chief Executive Women. These organisations will discuss their roles and the impact of gender equality initiatives.
Tony Zappia MP, Chair of the Human Rights Subcommittee, emphasised the importance of this hearing. He stated, “Australia’s overseas programmes support women in our region to be leaders and decision makers in their communities and nations. The Subcommittee will hear from development agencies involved in delivering these programmes to increase our understanding of what makes them successful.”
Examining how Australian Government programmes can be better designed to reflect the diversity of women’s identities, skills, and experiences is a key focus. This initiative aims to enhance the role of women in leadership and decision-making positions, contributing to broader security objectives.
Public Hearing Details
Broadcast live on the Parliament House website, the event will be accessible to the public. Interested individuals can follow the proceedings and view the programme details on the inquiry’s official webpage.
The inquiry’s webpage provides further information, including the full terms of reference. Visitors can make a submission, read other submissions, and track upcoming public hearings.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:59 am
