Have you caught yourself thinking about the recruitment market recently? Where are the candidates, what are their motivators and how can I best retain my staff? Look no further, Rarekind are giving you an inside look at the market.

Tech and IT

The world of tech is fast paced and forever changing. Candidates are becoming more readily available, looking to upskill, grow and develop in a new organisation. More experienced candidates are on the market. A lot of contracts haven’t been extended recently, so there’s more people searching, for permanent roles too. We recently advertised for an ICT Service Delivery Manager and received over 250 quality applications. We have an abundance of candidates, so, if you’re ready to make the move as a business in finding your next superstar, reach out.

Engineering

The engineering market is steady. We’re seeing a tighten in the candidate market due to large scale government, commercial and infrastructure projects. This is pushing up salaries and increasing demand for Engineers with experience across the energy and utilities sector.

We are seeing an influx of candidates across the FMCG industry. Skills shortages, lack of tradespeople and infrastructure projects are facilitating this demand and we continue to see this driving expectations across multi disciplines.

Corporate and Executive

The Corporate and Executive world is constantly changing.

We’ve seen an influx of Marketing candidates enter the market, from juniors to Marketing Managers and Executives. With their creative flair, they’re ready to transform businesses.

As we edge closer to end of financial year seeing an increase in Finance opportunities.

Naturally, with changes to IR laws in 2024, specialised HR, particularly WHS and risk management has been a hot topic and growth area for businesses.

A general downturn in Admin roles due to automation and outsourcing, however there has been an increase in specialised admin support and customer facing admin roles.

Recently we advertised a Customer Service role within 5 days we had over 400 applications. Look no further for your next professional Customer Service Officer.

Supply Chain, Industrial and Trades

The Candidate market in Western Sydney has changed significantly, particularly for trade-qualified individuals. Candidates who hold their trade qualifications now prefer permanent positions over temporary ones. Candidates are also more driven towards job security and culture over remuneration.

Get MOVE-ing this August and sign your workplace up to the Jeans for Genes workplace health and wellness challenge and be the top MOVE-ers in the Western Sydney Business Connection.

MOVE this August and challenge your team to be superheroes for the 1 in 20 kids who have cancer or other genetic diseases.

What is MOVE? You and your colleagues will commit to MOVE your own way, get active for 20 minutes a day and log your progress via the Jeans for Genes portal to compete with your colleagues to be the top MOVE-er!

The team at Novartis loved being superheroes for sick kids last year and Customer Operations Manager, Alex Sharpe, says: “We loved being able to get behind this very worthwhile cause and are already wondering how we can upscale for this year.”

The MOVE challenge focuses on educating your team on developing positive workplace health and wellness practices. Plus, research shows that regular exercise and self-care not only boosts productivity but also transforms workplace dynamics, increasing employee satisfaction and fostering a more engaged team. Moving can mean anything from going for a walk with colleagues, swimming, running, Pilates and yoga, to meditation and stretching. It’s up to your team how they MOVE 20 minutes per day throughout August.

Jeans for Genes provides everything to make this easy for your workplace to sign up! We provide interactive content, videos, collateral and resources promoting health and wellness in the workplace. We’ve thought of everything to make this fun and engaging for your team and will do the heavy lifting for you!

There are plenty of other ways to be a part of Jeans for Genes in your workplace. From baking, wearing jeans and skipping, contact our team and we will make it happen.

There are so many ways you can make a difference and we’re here to create, support and drive an amazing experience for your workplace this Jeans for Genes.

So please get in touch by filling out the expression of interest form or email us directly at partnerships@cmri.org.au

Jeans for Genes Day is 2 August. Find out more on our website.

Powerhouse Castle Hill welcomed thousands of visitors through its doors when it was officially opened by NSW Minister for Arts and Tourism John Graham on Saturday 23 March, 2024.

Image Credit: Sahlan Hayes

The two-day opening program included family-friendly workshops, artist talks, architectural tours and performances by musicians, DJs and dancers including First Nations group Jannawi Dance Clan, Western Sydney Youth Orchestra and one of Australia’s oldest lion and dragon dancing troupes, Jin Wu Koon.

Delivered in partnership with Create NSW and SW Public Works, Powerhouse Castle Hill is the new $44m state-of-the-art facility that is home to the storage, conservation and display of the Powerhouse Collection which includes more than 500,000 objects.

Image Credit: Rory Gardiner

Designed by Lahznimmo Architects and built by Taylor Construction, Powerhouse Castle Hill has been constructed to international museum standards and features a visible store, allowing public viewing into the 3,000 sqm Large Object storage area that stores the museum’s transport collection.

At more than 8,000 sqm, Powerhouse Castle Hill will house one of the southern hemisphere's largest photographic cycloramas that can carry objects up to 4 tonnes and will enable the ongoing digitisation of the collection.

It is the first time in the museum’s 140-year history that the collection will be stored in one location and co-located alongside conservation, curatorial and collection management staff.

The new building will provide public access for education programs, workshops, talks, exhibitions and other public events as well as working spaces for academic researchers, scientists and industry partners. The design of Powerhouse Castle Hill has already earned Lahznimmo Architects a nomination in the Australian Institute of Architects 2024 New South Wales Architecture Awards in the category of Public Architecture.

The new Powerhouse Castle Hill building sits alongside the Museums Discovery Centre, and both are open and free to the public every weekend. The expansion of Castle Hill is an integral piece of the $1.2 billion renewal of the Powerhouse which includes Powerhouse Parramatta, currently under construction, and the heritage revitalisation of the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo.

Peter Ritchie, AO, is highly respected as the man who brought the McDonald's Empire to Australia. He started as an employee of McDonald's and rose to the position of CEO/Chairman for 32 years.

You're invited to join us for a delicious 3-course lunch, where Peter will take questions, and share business insights from his new book, ‘The Magic of McDonald’s: Bring it to Your Business’.

With a limit of 80 tickets, this intimate event offers exclusive access to Peter, a valuable networking opportunity with business peers, and the chance to learn from the wisdom and success of this iconic business for your organisation. You will have the opportunity to submit your questions before the event, and they will be addressed in the Q&A segment of the event.

Twenty exclusive VIP tickets are available, which include pre-drinks with Peter and an opportunity to raise your questions and business pain points directly with him and receive his tailored advice. (Please note that this will be held before the event, at 11am).

To RSVP, please reply directly, or contact events.gws@rmhc.org.au if you wish to be invoiced. Alternatively, you can purchase your tickets directly online here. RSVP date will close 16th May.

Details are as follows:

Date

Thursday 23rd May 2024

Venue ️

MISC. Parramatta

Byrnes Avenue, Parramatta Park 2150

Pricing

Individual Ticket $350

VIP Ticket $450

Celebrate women and girls in ICT with us at the Institute of Applied Technology's special event!

This event will be held at the IATD campus at Meadowbank. 

We are thrilled to feature Corien Vermaak, a leading figure in cybersecurity and data privacy, who will take centre stage to share her inspiring journey and invaluable expertise.

In addition to Corien's engaging presentation, Bronte Cincotta from LinkedIn will provide expert insights on optimizing your LinkedIn profile for maximum professional impact.

Join us for an exclusive tour of the Institute of Applied Technology and its renowned Cyber Range, followed by a networking lunch. This is your chance to expand your knowledge, forge meaningful connections with industry leaders, and discover the latest advancements in cybersecurity technology.

https://www.iat.nsw.edu.au/contact-us

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate and empower women and girls in ICT while gaining invaluable insights into the exciting world of cybersecurity.

Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to secure your spot. We can't wait to see you there!

Construction is complete and cancer care provider, GenesisCare, is now treating patients at the new integrated cancer centre and research hub.

The facility, which has the capacity to deliver more than 13,000 cancer treatments annually, will mean cancer patients in Campbelltown, South Western Sydney and the Southern Highlands will now have access to the latest advancements and treatments in radiation oncology, medical oncology and global clinical trials.

The world class facility is a result of a partnership between Campbelltown City Council, Australia's leading integrated cancer care provide – GensisCare, and Northwest Healthcare. The facility, which has a 5 Star Green Star sustainability rating, is the first stage of a three-stage health precinct on the 2.8 hectare site in Campbelltown. Stage 2, incorporating a day surgical hospital, specialist consult suites, health and wellbeing related uses and a cafe, is anticipated to begin construction in late 2024.

Further details on the new centre are available on the GenesisCare website.

Find our more here

Welcome To Our New Members

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Gold Member:

Pullman, Novotel & ibis Sydney Olympic Park - With over 430 hectares of natural beauty throughout the parklands and world-class venues, Sydney Olympic Park is truly built for events and a place for everyone. Located just over 30 minutes from the Sydney CBD and 16 minutes from the airport, it is easily accessible by rail, coach, ferry, or car. Accor Sydney Olympic Park Hotel offers options at the Pullman, Novotel, and Ibis with 545 accommodation rooms and over 1700m² of space across 19 meeting and event rooms. It is the perfect place for people to meet, focus and create moments of impact to achieve successful outcomes.

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Silver Members:

Bartier Perry Lawyers - Bartier Perry, with over 80 years of experience, offers personalised legal services without big firm overheads. Our core values of trust, quality, and innovation shape our culture, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement. We prioritise direct lawyer-client communication and adhere to rigorous service standards. Our legal advice is concise, client-focused, and transparent in cost. As a member of World Link for Law, we provide access to a global network. We strive for legal excellence as a standard and aim to make a difference in service delivery.

Institute of Applied Technology - The Institutes of Applied Technology are a collaboration between TAFE NSW, industry, universities and supported by the Department of Education. There are two Institutes:

The Institute of Applied Technology Digital (IATD) is a technology focused institute at TAFE NSW Meadowbank. Working in collaboration with TAFE NSW, Microsoft, Macquarie University, and the University of Technology Sydney, the Institute of Applied Technology Digital designs and delivers market leading training that rapidly adapts to industry needs.

The Institute of Applied Technology Construction (IATC) is focused on future innovations and leadership in Construction and will be located at TAFE NSW Nepean (Kingswood) from early 2024. Working in collaboration with TAFE NSW, Western Sydney University, and CPB Contractors, the Institute of Applied Technology Construction designs and delivers market-leading training that rapidly adapts to industry needs.

Killara Services - Killara Services is one of the fastest immerging Indigenous businesses in Australia. We are leading the way in creating sustainable employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians within the Cleaning & Soft Services Industry.

Our clients range from Australia's largest Integrated Facility Management firms like BGIS, JLL, Honeywell and CBRE to direct contacts engagement with Shell Australia, BAE Systems, Canva & Coates. Our Indigenous engagement outcomes are the best in the entire Facilities Industry.

The Media Park - The Media Park is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in Sydney, Central Coast, and Newcastle. We assist local and national businesses with comprehensive marketing strategies, including media planning, buying, social media management, digital marketing, graphic and brand design, website development, production, and more. Our agency prioritises client satisfaction, offering unbiased, cost-effective, and holistic marketing solutions from conception to execution. With a nationally recognised team, our experience speaks volumes. We are dedicated to our clients' needs, goals, and growth.

University of Sydney - As the first university to be established in Australasia, the University of Sydney consistently ranks as one of Australia’s top universities. We aim to create and sustain a university that will, for the benefit of both Australia and the wider world, maximise the potential of the brightest researchers and most promising students, whatever their social or cultural background.

Waratah Group Services - Waratah Group Services provide Landscape Maintenance, Arboriculture Services, Landscape Construction & Cleaning Services to public, commercial and private sites the whole of Sydney. We work closely with our clients to give back to the community and achieve social and community outcomes. Regardless of the size of the job, WGS will work to your brief and budget, adding value to your property and creating a space you’ll love.

WEXPO - WEXPO has evolved in a short time as a go-to business event series for the region. WEXPO is the umbrella brand for a series of expo-style events held at popular venues in Western Sydney. W denoting Western Sydney. WEXPO is where business and community gather in one place on one day to connect, learn, and grow. WEXPO is an informative and entertaining visitor experience for residents and businesses.

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Bronze Members:

Brick Studios - We’re a collective of filmmakers who love to excite, engage, and create the stories that are important to you. Based in South West Sydney, we have a massive pool of creative talent to draw from, all specialists in their fields, with the flexibility to expand or contract the team depending on the scale of your video project. Our vision is to be a cultural hub for clients to collaborate with us as a trusted partner for their brand, and to strengthen pathways for both emerging and established artists across commercial and creative projects.

Castle Hill Country Club - Castle Hill Country Club is one of Sydney’s leading private golf clubs and home to a superb 18-hole championship course ranked in Australia's Top 100 courses. The Club has a proud reputation for hosting major amateur and professional tournaments. The modern clubhouse building is impressive both inside and out – with delightful gardens and alfresco areas in which to enjoy a drink or a meal, and a spacious and wonderfully-appointed indoor space with a magnificent covered balcony.

JLW Interiors - JLW Interiors is a privately owned commercial interior and office fitout company. Located in Emu Plains, New South Wales, our services are backed by years of fitout industry experience throughout NSW, and even other parts of Australia.

Our Directors, including our Managing Director, John L Williams, also work within the company, thereby ensuring an active interest in getting things right and done in the most efficient way. We all about delivering a quality solution, every time!

Navarra Venues - Navarra is a collection of five extraordinary venues, offering 50 event spaces in Sydney. These venues include Curzon Hall, a 19th Century Castle surrounded by picturesque gardens and underground cellars; Oatlands Estate, a charming 19th Century Manor surrounded by vineyards and gardens; Montage, a stunning waterfront event venue in Lilyfield with uniquely contemporary event spaces; Conca D’oro, a newly refurbished event venue boasting elegance and class; and Villa Navarra, an esteemed estate nestled in the picturesque Southern Highlands. Situated on an expansive 116-acre property, Villa Navarra offers a splendid setting for both accommodation and events.

Westgate Executive Search - Westgate Executive Search, located in Parramatta, brings a fresh perspective to senior leadership recruitment within Australia and globally. Our team of former industry executives leverage their vast experience to match motivated talent with complex organisational requirements. Westgate’s services include talent acquisition for a wide range of leadership roles, including C-suite, executive, and board positions, as well as psychometric testing and strategic onboarding support. With a vast international network, we support businesses in Australia and abroad, ensuring a seamless recruitment process aligned with our clients' unique needs.

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Small Business Members:

Agile Energy - Agile Energy is a developer, financier, owner and operator of commercial solar systems across Australia. Traditionally, to acquire solar assets, companies are required to invest upfront capital. Agile Energy disrupts the markets with its funding partners and provides ‘behind the meter’ Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) solution to companies.

Under our solution, we fund, install and maintain the solar asset over the term, whilst our customers simply pay for the energy generated at a reduced rate.

Amplify HR - We are HR consultants who specialise in helping service based businesses of under 100 employees who need to scale up and grow. We do this through providing a dedicated HR partner to deliver on-demand HR support, and build your workplace culture using our Find Grow Keep methodology.

Concept HR Services - ​Concept HR Services helps small and medium businesses set up and maintain effective HR practices and processes to attract, manage, develop and retain great employees. Personalised HR solutions and day-to-day HR advice with support tailored to meet the specific needs of your business, your workplace and organisational culture.

Narellan Smash Repairs - With over 30 years of industry experience our focus is on high quality smash repairs and accident related services delivered with the highest standard of customer service. We keep up to date with the changing ways in which all vehicles are being designed and built, including new technology, materials, techniques and skills to keep delivering high quality repairs to our customers.

NGNU - We provide property, construction and government organisations with project management services that meet unflinching standards and deliver unparalleled outcomes. From the early stages of project conception through to close out and finalisation – it doesn’t matter whether you need help collaborating with architects, engineers, builders, or other essential consultants, we have the expertise to guide you through the process and deliver success, value and results every step of the way.

Samartha Information System - Samartha Information Systems Pty. Ltd. is an ISO 9001:2015 quality-certified company, adhering to internationally accepted standards for quality management. We specialise in Development and Software Integration, providing superior solutions for Software, Web, and mobile platforms. Our innovative approach stems from the collective experience of our team, enabling us to understand clients' needs, propose effective IT strategies, and deliver high-quality, scalable solutions using cutting-edge technologies.

Simplly Fin Wiz - With over 33 years of experience in Banking, Financial services, and Mortgage broking, Simplly Fin Wiz specializes in offering competitive Home and Business Loans accompanied by expert advice. As a full MFAA member affiliated with over 30 financial institutes, we provide objective assessments and assist in long-term financial planning, ensuring a seamless customer experience. Whether you're seeking a new loan or assessing existing ones, our team offers tailored solutions to meet your needs efficiently.

Tiny Mobile - Tiny Mobile pioneers innovative tiny homes on wheels, boasting over 140 builds and recognised for excellence with awards like "Best Build Under 100k." Committed to quality and creativity, we redefine compact living, exploring expansion into mobile medical and dental sectors. With a passion for transformative design, Tiny Mobile is set to lead the market, driven by a genuine goal to address societal challenges.

Introducing the Western Sydney Business Connection's "Meet the Member" Series: a fresh initiative designed to spotlight our members, offering insights into their businesses, accomplishments, and unique perspectives. From established industry leaders to emerging entrepreneurs, this series celebrates the rich diversity of our membership base. Stay tuned as we highlight our members, welcome our newest members, and foster meaningful connections in Western Sydney.

Seeking connections with our members? Reach out with The Connection to learn how we can help facilitate those introductions for you.

Palantir Consulting is a solutions-based engineering consultancy franchise headquartered in Sydney. At Palantir, our commitment to clients is to create the best outcomes for projects – every single time.

We recognise that professionals in the construction industry are always looking for ways to reduce wastage, better manage projects and improve their client relationships. We exist to help our clients maximise project value, minimise project risk and build with confidence and integrity.

We leverage our expertise and industry knowledge to break down complex projects, envisioning likely outcomes and results. We help our clients see into the future by better understanding the structural integrity of their building assets, so they look good and stand strong for decades to come.

What is Palantir Consulting working on at the moment?

This year in May, Palantir is hosting its yearly event, RADIUS. RADIUS 2024 is a half-day event aimed at fostering connections and knowledge-sharing among Builders, Engineers, Consultants, Project Managers, Architects, and Suppliers in the Construction and Engineering industry. Scheduled for May 24, 2024, from 12:00 PM at the Swissotel Sydney, attendees will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts, connect with peers, and participate in matchmaking sessions. The event features professional photo sessions, lunch, barista coffee, dinner, after-event drinks, and valuable gifts.

At Radius, attendees will learn from keynote speakers:

• Michael McQueen: Multi-award-winning speaker, trend forecaster, and bestselling author, known for addressing over 500,000 people across 5 continents.
• William Zhang: Featured on Forbes Australia, founder of Palantir Consulting and the RADIUS event
• David Previte: National President of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing, Founder, and Director of Waterproofing Integrity.
• James O'Loghlin: Australian comedian, television, and radio presenter at ABC.

Where to find out more information about RADIUS 2024?

Explore what's included and learn more about the RADIUS event by clicking the link below. Don't miss this opportunity to advance your career and expand your network in the construction industry 

RADIUS 2024 WEBSITE

PALANTIR CONSULTING WEBSITE

Welcome To Our New Members

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Gold Member:

Pullman at Sydney Olympic Park, Novotel Sydney Olympic Park, ibis Sydney Olympic Park

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Silver Members:

Bartier Perry Lawyers

Institute of Applied Technology

Killara Services

The Media Park

University of Sydney

Waratah Group Services

WEXPO

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Bronze Members:

Brick Studios

Castle Hill Country Club

JLW Interiors

Navarra Venues

Westgate Executive Search

The Connection would like to welcome our newest Small Business Members:

Agile Energy

Amplify HR

Concept HR Services

Narellan Smash Repairs

NGNU

Samartha Information System

Simplly Fin Wiz

Tiny Mobile

UN Women Australia has announced its theme of International Women’s Day 2024 as: Count Her In: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment. At the Western Sydney Business Connection we wholeheartedly embrace this theme! We present, in collaboration with Westgate Executive Search, a leadership interview series featuring six influential women in our region. With an exclusive article each day leading up to the 8th of March, we celebrate prominent female leaders shaping Western Sydney's business, social and economic landscape. Explore their perspectives, experiences, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

In our final installment for our COUNT HER IN Interview Series, we spotlight Susan Templeman MP, Federal Member for Macquarie. From journalist to politician, Susan's journey is marked by resilience and advocacy for education, mental health, and social justice. As Australia's Special Envoy for the Arts, she champions creativity's role in policy. Susan reflects on her experiences, highlighting the need to support women's aspirations in politics and beyond. Join us in celebrating her story and the impact of women's leadership.

Susan Templeman MP

Federal Member for Macquarie

Susan Templeman MP is a politician, currently serving as a Member of Parliament in the House of Representatives. She was first elected as the Member for Macquarie at the 2016 election, with re-elections in 2019 and 2022. Her career in journalism included many years as a foreign correspondent in New York and London. In the early ‘90s she started a Media and Communications Business, while being an advocate in her community. Susan focuses on issues such as education, mental health, and social justice. In 2022, she was appointed as Australia's Special Envoy for the Arts by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Jacqueline Clements: Can you share what sparked your interest in politics and how you eventually became a Member of Parliament?

Susan Templeman MP: Let’s start by saying that I never expected to become a Member of Parliament. I began my career as a journalist at the Canberra Press Gallery back in 1985, in the Old Parliament House during the Bob Hawke era. I was 21 and witnessed politics unfold and history being made before my eyes. That was my political education. It was such a privilege to see the parliamentary process at work from up close.

It wasn’t until later, after returning to Australia from years of working overseas, and having started a family, that I realised the need for change. My family faced the challenges of supporting a child with serious mental health issues within a system of government that wasn’t working well. That planted a seed for me. When sharing the story of my daughter’s challenges within the community, other families shared their stories with me. It made me realise that many families were struggling with the existing systems.

When the former member for Macquarie, announced his retirement I thought it would be good for our community to have a woman representing us. And I just decided to give it a go. I was in my late forties, wanting to use my life experience in helping to make a difference in mental health and related areas. That’s how my career as a politician started. However it wasn’t smooth sailing. I lost my first election in 2010 and lost again in 2013, finally being elected in 2016.

JC: Your political and personal journey has been marked by a lot of resilience and determination. In 2013 you and your family lost your house to the Blue Mountain bushfires. How did you bounce back and how has this influenced your approach to politics?

ST: Admittedly 2013 was not my favourite year. I turned 50, lost an election and my house burned down. Disasters often make people want to leave, but to me and many others affected by the Blue Mountains’ bushfires the opposite happened. There was such strength and connection in the community. The support from local organisations helping with the recovery was fantastic. This embedded a belief in me that local community holds many solutions and pathways forward, particularly after a disaster. Looking back, I realise how crucial that experience was. It is often in hindsight that we recognise the value of our experiences. And in fact, I didn't know that years later I would be the member of parliament dealing with the Gospers Mountain Bushfires and then flood after flood after flood and storms in recent years.

In hindsight I also recognise that staying around after losing elections gave people time to learn to know me, allowing me to show the community that I was there for them. In the lead up to the 2016 election it was clear that I was going to be a strong voice, whether in government, in the opposition, or not elected at all. People recognised my genuine belief in the community rather than personal or political ambition.

The community I represent is remarkably diverse. Within this relatively small region there can be many opposing views, making it both challenging and fascinating. I acknowledge the importance of respecting different opinions, remaining open to learning about different ideas, especially when I haven’t formed a fixed position. But there are also matters I feel strong about, where not everyone might agree. I was a firm supporter of changing the rules around same-sex marriage and openly advocated for a yes vote to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the constitution. Sometimes you have to agree to disagree. Being respectful and acknowledging that my way is not the only way is important. I have been married for decades and even my husband and I don’t always agree on everything. It is therefore no wonder that there are many people in the community who have different views too.

JC: In 2022 you were appointed to be the Special Envoy of the Arts by the Prime Minister. Can you share your views on this role?

ST: The Prime Minister’s brief to me was to support the arts and advocate for the arts. It gives me an opportunity to raise issues with all ministers about the role the arts might play in their policy solutions. The last decade has been challenging for the arts. However we have returned to a situation where artists and peers make decisions about funding and grants. A year ago our new cultural policy came out, informed by national consultations.

Importantly, the arts are not limited to a small bucket of money with the word ‘arts’ written on it. In my view it is important to recognise that the arts can play a key role in many key policy areas such as disability, education, and wellbeing. Every portfolio has opportunities for arts and culture. It is also important that we support as many artists as we can in different parts of their career. I now have the privilege to see a lot of arts and cultural performances in different places around the country. It allows me to have discussions with artists and creators from the film industry through to the circus. It's a delight to see the incredible creativity.

JC: As we celebrate International Women's Day we also reflect on the barriers that are still holding women back from reaching their full potential. Have you experienced such barriers in your career and how do you support women who aspire to a political career?

ST: I hope that the presence of women in politics in general, and my own presence in Parliament, serves as an example for young women that a career in politics is worthwhile and achievable. We all know that if you can't see it, you can't be it. I am proud that my daughter is now involved in politics and works in policy areas at a different level of government. My wish is that she and other women who aspire to a political career get the respect and recognition that I now receive.

But it has not always been like this. My career started as a journalist in a commercial radio news room. It was the 1980s and sexism was not subtle. Being quite shy, this required me to develop some key skills and stand up for myself. I would love to say that we have moved on since then, but unfortunately young women still face many challenges in the workplace and elsewhere.

This is why as a small business owner I have always employed women who just had children and couldn’t immediately re-establish themselves back into their TV or radio journalism roles. By providing this balance between work and home, my media business could hire the most amazing women. Of course it wasn't always easy, particularly when a baby got sick in the middle of the night and someone else had to step in at work at the last moment. Reflecting on this now, I realise how lucky I was to have my mum help me when my children were young.

My experience as a business owner has taught me how small businesses can make a big difference in supporting women who are juggling caring responsibilities and a professional career. But small businesses cannot always provide the next career step. Therefore I absolutely encourage and support women in planning where they want to be next and how to get there. I now have young women working with me who are still at university, soon moving onto the next stages of their careers. I’m excited to support them in either opening a door to a new opportunity or giving a nudge, backing their decision to step into that next challenge.

Presented in collaboration with:

By Jacqueline Clements
CEO, Westgate Executive Search