Victorian Minister for Women, Mary-Anne Thomas, has today announced applications have opened for the 2026 Joan Kirner Emerging Leaders Program.
Honouring the legacy of Victoria’s first female Premier, the program aims to equip participants with practical skills and strategies to overcome gendered barriers and unlock their full leadership potential.
Minister Thomas said women were still underrepresented in leadership roles across Victoria.
“Too often women are stuck in lower management – even in sectors where they make up the majority of the workforce,” she said.
“This limits their influence, locks them out of decision making and increases long-term social and economic disadvantage.
“When women lead, organisations benefit from broader perspectives, stronger collaboration and improved outcomes for their communities,” she said.
Victorian women and gender diverse people working in the for-purpose sector between the ages of 22 and 40 are encouraged to apply.
This year’s program focuses on those from organisations that might not have the support for formal leadership training.
“Leadership shouldn’t require courage – but for many, it still does. We want to change that,” said Institute of Community Directors Executive Director, Adele Stowe-Lindner.
Applications are now open and close on 30 March.
To find out more and apply, visit vic.gov.au/joan-kirner-emerging-leaders-program.
