Business in Heels International
Geelong Hosts Australia’s Gender Equity Leaders
Geelong, VIC – 23 July 2025 — Business in Heels is proud to present the Meet the Winners Breakfast: Accelerating Gender Equity, to be held at the Geelong Heritage Library on Wednesday, 23 July. This energising morning will spotlight the organisations leading Australia’s gender equity movement, sharing the proven strategies behind their award-winning success.
Winners from the Gender Equity Awards, including Coles, Capgemini, Coulter Legal, and Barwon Water, will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the policies, behaviours, and leadership that are shifting the dial on equity.
“Gender equity isn’t something our great-granddaughters should have to wait for,” says Lisa Sweeney, CEO of Business in Heels. “This breakfast is more than a celebration—it’s a road map for what’s possible when leaders act with intention and consistency.”
The event has attracted strong local backing, with the City of Greater Geelong opening the morning, Deakin University presenting on gender equity changes for higher education, and the Transport Accident Commission sharing initiatives from a government-owned organisation. In addition, the Geelong Chamber of Commerce and Committee for Geelong proudly support the initiative.
What to expect:
Coulter Legal, one of the 2023 award winners, demonstrates how change becomes culture. “We’ve promoted women into senior roles while on parental leave so they can step into leadership on their return,” said Belinda Perisic, COO. “This recognition affirms our ongoing investment in equity.”
Principal Lawyer Alicia Carroll adds, “Equity isn’t aspirational at Coulter Legal—it’s part of our DNA.”
https://events.businessinheels.com/roadmaps-best-practices-gender-equity-awards-winners
Key Facts:
Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre report
With an ongoing gender pay gap of 21.8% according to the latest WGEA figures. For every $1 on average a man makes, women earn 78c. Over the course of a year, that difference adds up to $28,425.
About us:
About Business in Heels International.
The Gender Equity Awards honour individuals, organizations, and initiatives that are leading the charge toward more equitable and inclusive workplaces. Now in our third year, these awards shine a spotlight on best practices, celebrate meaningful progress, and inspire action to drive systemic change. By showcasing trailblazers and their impactful strategies, we aim to encourage others to follow their lead, fostering workplaces where diversity thrives and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
The company has a vision to create an unlimited future for women. It is known for its work in providing mentoring support across Australia with Mentor Mornings and Leadership Summits to inspire women into senior roles in male dominated industries and for Recalibrate – Gender Equity Awards for Australia. Today it connects over 200,000.