The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to equality and there is no better time to take action than on International Women's Day.
On March 8 Tasmanians will join in this annual global celebration of the economic, political and social achievements of women.
It is also a timely reminder to reflect on the past accomplishments as well as the challenges still to be overcome.
One of those challenges is the number of women on boards in Tasmania, which is why last year I requested a review into the number of women on boards to make sure we are doing everything we can to ensure equality.
Sadly, Tasmania is lagging behind the nation. As of September last year, the representation of women on government boards was 36 per cent, two per cent behind the national average.
While this is a challenge that has confronted successive governments, we will not be deterred.
The Hodgman Liberal Government is currently developing a new Women on Boards Strategy 2015 – 2019, which will be released in coming months.
We are also taking other actions to help increase consideration of women on boards appointments, including:
The theme for International Women's Day 2015 is 'Make it Happen', and I invite Tasmanians to join us in making equality happen.
For information about event across the state go to: www.dpac.tas.gov.au