MPN contributes to Queensland Women's Economic Security Roundtable

Recently, The Multicultural Professional Network (MPN) had the opportunity to participate in the Multicultural Thought Leaders’ Roundtable, hosted by The Honourable Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Minister for Multiculturalism. The event brought together leaders from across Queensland to contribute recommendations on priority areas for advancing women’s economic opportunities, informing the development of the Queensland Government’s first Women’s Economic Security Strategy.

“Our advocacy at the roundtable focused on three critical areas: digital inclusion, moving from mentorship to sponsorship, and promoting inclusive procurement frameworks that strengthen representation at all levels of business,” said Nora Fraser, CEO of MPN. “Under-represented talent continues to face systemic barriers across the corporate pipeline. It is essential that organisations and governments work together to ensure these talented individuals are supported in leadership positions.”

Research supports these observations. McKinsey’s Women in the Workplace reports indicate that, despite high participation in mentorship and leadership programmes, women often receive less sponsorship, highlighting a systemic gap. This “over-mentored, under-sponsored” phenomenon not only limits career progression, but also impacts organisational performance.

Our engagement at the roundtable reflects the broader work of our Policy Leadership initiatives, which aim to inform, influence and enhance policy settings to advance an inclusive and equitable society. Through extensive consultation with government bodies, stakeholders and communities, our research and advocacy teams develop recommendations grounded in diverse, community-informed perspectives. This ensures policies reflect lived experience and drive systemic change.

As conversations continue around women’s economic security and broader workforce policies, we encourage businesses and individuals to contribute their perspectives. Feedback from events, surveys and submissions will directly inform the Queensland Government strategy and future policy initiatives.

“Our current initiatives in policy and advocacy continue our commitment to addressing intersectional barriers. MPN was recently invited by the Senate to participate in current consultations, including Joint Standing Committee inquiries,” Fraser added. “This provides an important opportunity to influence proposed changes and ensure that policies, from equitable workforce development to the ethical use of AI, are shaped by those directly affected.” It is encouraging to see the Queensland Government’s commitment to evidence-based policy and inclusive engagement that drives real change.