“Now, more than ever, there’s a strong call-to-action to press forward and progress gender parity. There’s a strong call to #PressforProgress motivating and uniting friends, colleagues and whole communities to think, act and be gender inclusive.” International Women’s Day

Today (March 8) is International Women’s Day.

This day is about “women’s achievements throughout history and across nations”.

For me, today is an opportunity to focus on women, who on a daily basis, work, care for family and friends and who have often struggled to financially support themselves and their families. Some of whom receive services through VMCH.

Villa Maria Catholic Homes is an organisation with a strong and proud focus on providing Affordable Housing for people who can’t afford rental accommodation. The ability to keep a quality roof over our head is one of the most compelling issues facing Australian communities.

71% of residents/people living in VMCH Affordable Accommodation are single women. International Women’s Day 2018, is an opportunity to applaud everyday women in our communities. Many work in unpaid roles caring and supporting their families and friends, creating a nurturing environment and community in which their loved ones thrive and achieve.

I’m proud of our 82% strong female workforce at VMCH, and recognise the important role VMCH plays as an employee to provide a flexible place to work, so women and men can juggle the important role supporting their family plays in their lives.

I’m pleased to partner with Catholic Superannuation this International Women’s Day to provide information and tips to encourage women to take an active role in planning for their financial future.

When it comes to finances, many women struggle their whole life. 

Poverty is a daily reality for millions of Australian women aged 55 and over.

Today is a good opportunity to focus on what we can do to make positive change.

I look forward to celebrating International Women’s Day and am honoured to play a role in the work we do, to improve outcomes for women in our community.

Sonya Smart CEO – Villa Maria Catholic Homes