Breaking Barriers: Women, Work and the Road to Gender Equality

At the current rate of progress, achieving full gender equality may take nearly 300 years. By 2050, women globally are still expected to spend 2.3 more hours per day on unpaid care work than men, limiting their access to education, employment, and opportunities. And despite the rise of technology and AI, women represent only 22% of AI workers and less than one-third of tech sector employees worldwide.

Join us for a crucial panel discussion to delve into women's challenges in Australia’s economy, explore why gender equality is vital for economic growth, and evaluate actionable steps for real change.

This is an in-person event only. Networking and light refreshments will follow the discussion.

Meet the Panel

Donna Grimwade, Board Member, UN Women

Donna Grimwade retired in August 2023 as the Deputy Director of Financial Management at UN Women. Since 2012, she has been pivotal in implementing IPSAS and ensuring consecutive unqualified audits. Donna has extensive experience in the UN system and has been a strong advocate for gender mainstreaming, co-charging the Taskforce on Gender Equality Markers and mentoring young talent throughout her career. She holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) from QUT.

Associate Professor Penny Williams, Centre Director, QUT Centre for Decent Work and Industry

Associate Professor Penny Williams is the Centre Director for QUT’s Centre for Decent Work and Industry and Senior Research Fellow in the School of Management. Her research focuses on the impact of technology on work and workplaces, including platform work, flexible working and the use of AI and robots.

Professor Michael Flood, Sociologist and Professor, QUT School of Justice

Professor Michael Flood is a Professor in the School of Justice at QUT, specialising in gender, sexuality, and the prevention of interpersonal violence, with a focus on engaging men in violence prevention and promoting gender justice. His internationally recognised work, extensively published and impactful on policy and programming, has significantly advanced understanding of violence against women, men's advocacy, and gender equality. He has authored numerous publications, including influential books and articles on these topics.

Yan Qian, Ambassador for Women, AI Australia

Yan Qian is dedicated to advancing gender equality in the tech industry. She holds a PhD in deep learning and has experience in healthcare, transportation, financial services, and telecommunications. Currently working in responsible AI, Yan focuses on implementing responsible AI practices and meeting ethical standards

Professor Robyn Mayes (Moderator)

Robyn Mayes is a Professor and Associate Dean of Research in QUT’s Faculty of Business and Law. She has expertise in social justice, human geography, and gender studies. Her research spans corporate social responsibility, gender in organisations, and labour migration. She has significant publications and over $2 million in research funding and is actively involved in advancing social justice through leadership roles and community service.