Women and men from across the ADF and Australian Public Service gathered at Government House in Adelaide for the Women in Defence Leadership Forum and luncheon.
Hosted by the Governor of South Australia Frances Adamson, the September event provided attendees with the opportunity to discuss a range of topics centred around the theme of ‘Growing through change’, including personal growth, work and family, and organisational culture.
Guests engaged with a panel of senior leaders that included Deputy Commissioner South Australia Police Linda Williams, Commander Forces Command Major General Susan Coyle, as well as Ms Adamson.
Reflecting on their careers and experiences, the panellists provided insight into how their workplaces have changed over time.
The forum’s lead planner, 9 Brigade’s Captain Tayla Davies, took encouragement from the panel’s collective insights.
“It’s important to showcase women that have reached a certain level in their field, to show that (a) it’s possible, and (b) to listen and learn from their experiences,” Captain Davies said.
“Especially among the more junior female personnel in attendance, they were able to see what’s possible, while networking to build camaraderie and connectedness, which I hope will make it easier to discuss women-specific issues within a male-dominated field.”
Having only recently completed her initial employment training, Australian Army soldier Private Jasmine Singh attended the event and relished the chance to be involved.
“I really enjoyed meeting new people from all walks of life and learning about their experiences, both inside and outside their workforce,” Private Singh said.
“I really felt inspired by the speakers to make a positive impact on our environment and people around us, no matter what role we have.”
Captain Davies said the inclusion of women and men on the guest list could only lead to better outcomes.
“Unless we as women share our stories with the men we work with, they sometimes may not be aware of some of the niche challenges that women can face,” Captain Davies said.
“I think the men in attendance would have heard some interesting perspectives that potentially they hadn’t previously considered, and hopefully now they can apply them to their command and leadership style as they move through their careers.”
Captain Davies sees potential for similar forums catering to a range of minority groups.
“I think sometimes it’s hard to talk about your perspective or lived experiences when you know that it’s not necessarily going to be received, respected or heard by certain people,” she said.
“For minority groups in Defence, forums like this can help to instil a sense of belonging and commonality in people, where previously they may not have felt it within their organisations.
“There is such strength in diversity, it’s important we showcase it.”
