Thursday, 14 August 2025

 Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Regional Development) (12:15): Last week I was on Bridge Road in Richmond with the Premier and Minister Erdogan to meet the wonderful women from Fitted for Work. This was the 2025–26 Victorian budget charity. It is customary for Labor governments to nominate a charity to contribute to when handing down the annual budget, and being the first female Victorian Treasurer I thought Fitted for Work was a great fit. Many members in the chamber will be familiar with the work of the awesome charity and how they help women and non-binary and gender-diverse people build up their confidence to enter or re-enter the workforce. This includes developing interview skills, résumé help or an outfit that makes them feel job ready and confident. Over the last 20 years Fitted for Work has helped over 45,000 women break down barriers to employment, in doing so making a remarkable impact on helping to close the economic gender gap. In Victoria women’s workforce participation has reached 63 per cent, which equates to an extra 425,000 women entering the workforce in the last 10 years, contributing substantially to overall economic growth and productivity in this state. But it is not just about the economics. Through employment, women build broader social networks and report better mental health outcomes, and it can empower them to take control of their futures. It is a win–win for everyone. It would also be remiss of me not to highlight the terrific space that is Fitted for Work’s Conscious Closet, a preloved shopping paradise where 100 per cent of profits go back directly to supporting their programs and services. I would encourage anyone that is looking for more purchases to go and have a look. I am very proud to have picked Fitted for Work as my budget day charity, and I thank all of my colleagues who have contributed generously to this incredible cause.