The LNP has today announced a $20 million financial assistance package to support women returning to the workforce and unlock women’s economic security.
LNP Leader David Crisafulli announced the economic empowerment Returning to Work package in support of International Women’s Day “Count Her In” focus for women’s economic inclusion.
The LNP’s Returning to Work package offers practical financial assistance to support women who want to transition back into the workforce after having children, caring for family or illness.
The $20 million policy would be spent across four years offering grants up to $5,000 to help cover essential costs including:
- Workwear
- Childcare
- Re-certification and training
- Preparation of CVs or job-seeking coaching
- Technology
- Relocation
The policy is part of the LNP’s Women’s Economic Security plan and will tackle the economic barriers currently preventing women from re-joining the workforce.
The initial $20 million commitment would be rolled out across Queensland should the LNP win the October 2024 election.
“The LNP is committed to economic empowerment for women and our plan will unlock opportunities for women seeking to return to the workforce,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“The LNP’s Returning to Work package is key to removing barriers to re-employment through financial assistance for costs like childcare, technical re-certification or relocation.
“The costs of purchasing a computer to prepare a CV, clothes for interviews or covering childcare costs until they get re-established at work, are very real barriers to re-employment.
“Women should not be locked-out of a job because they can’t afford the cost of job-seeking.
“Alarmingly, in a crippling Cost of Living Crisis, the costs involved with employment has placed it out of reach for too many women.”
Shadow Minister for Women’s Economic Security Amanda Camm said the announcement was part of the LNP’s commitment to women’s economic security.
“The LNP wants to break-down financial barriers and help women take the next step to economic empowerment,” Ms Camm said.
“If a woman has left her employment for longer than six months to focus on children or being a full-time carer, then we should do everything we can to support her when she chooses the time is right to find a new job.
“We will ‘Count Her In’ and restore the financial freedom and choice which has been stripped away by rising cost pressures on families.
“Only the LNP has the Right Priorities for Queensland’s Future, including improving women’s economic security.”
