Libby Coker (Corangamite, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Barwon Heads is so well represented by the local women of the Country Women's Association. These inspirational women are such a breath of fresh air—full of enthusiasm and innovative ideas that are resulting in amazing support for the local community.

Recently, I met with these women to congratulate them on their successful volunteer grant, which is helping in their efforts to raise money for worthy local projects. While many Australians may equate the CWA with famous recipes for scones, the CWA has always done so much more. It has advocated for women's issues at their local, state and federal levels. And I'm proud to say that our government is listening.

Through our recent budget we're investing in paid superannuation on paid parental leave, and expanding paid parental leave to 26 weeks. We're delivering better support for women suffering endometriosis, pelvic pain and miscarriage, we're establishing the Leaving Violence Program and investing a record $3.4 billion to help end family and sexual violence. We're improving wages in feminised workforces, like aged care, and making child care cheaper so that women can return to work if they wish to.

When I spoke to the CWA members about these reforms they were so positive; these are initiatives that matter to them and they matter to all women. When we support women, we not only support their wellbeing but we support families and create a solid foundation for the future.