DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE
Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999, Fax: 02 6265 1545
MSPA 065/10
Friday, 12 March 2010
Navy launches mentoring program for women
The Navy Women’s Mentoring Program was launched today as part of Defence’s
recognition of International Women’s Day, at the Australian Defence Force Academy
in Canberra.
Rear Admiral Trevor Jones, Head of Navy People and Reputation, launched the
program, saying “This mentoring program – ‘My Mentor’ – forms part of the Navy
Women’s Leadership Program”.
“In the maritime combat space Navy has more women in combat roles. The ADF has
a proud history, and continues to display its commitment to its female members,
current and future, with initiatives such as this,” Rear Admiral Jones said.
Designed by Emberin, ‘My Mentor’ is a highly regarded program, and has been
implemented in many corporate and public sector organisations around Australia, as
part of gender diversity strategies to help women achieve their career potential and
counter the gender imbalance in the workforce.
The launch of the Navy Women’s Mentoring Program was attended by female Navy
members participating in the program, ranging in rank from Able Seaman to Captain.
Guest speaker Professor Kerryn Phelps said the presence of female members wanting
to enhance their leadership prospects was encouraging.
“Women in the military may face unique challenges, but they also enjoy unique
benefits – access to leadership training, career progression, not to mention travel and
adventure,” Professor Phelps said.
“The world is changing and I am please to see that traditionally male areas such as the
military are changing with it.”
‘My Mentor’ is DVD/CD- and workbook-based, and is designed to be completed over
a 12-week period. Navy Captains Elizabeth Rushbrook and Siobhan Bacon feature in
the DVD, along with many highly regarded senior women from corporate and public
sectors.
“What is so important about this program is that it is designed to enhance female
leadership in the Royal Australian Navy, and can be used to shape our desired Navy
culture through empowering and supporting these future leaders,” Rear Admiral Jones
said.
“This program will assist in taking Navy in the direction that society in general is
heading – of flexible careers, flexible work options and an inclusive culture.”
Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: (02) 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
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