Backing Women to Lead

The Bowen Basin Women in Leadership Program, delivered by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays with funding from the Local Buying Foundation, supports regional women to build confidence, capability and networks so they can step into leadership roles.

Women in regional areas often face barriers including limited access to development opportunities and networks, which can restrict career progression. This program addresses that gap through structured learning, mentoring and peer support in a practical setting. Participants build leadership skills, strengthen their voice and gain the confidence to step forward.

The outcomes have been strong, with many participants stepping into leadership roles, progressing their careers and supporting others to do the same. This is creating a pipeline of future leaders across regional communities and helping build more inclusive and resilient businesses and industries. By investing in leadership at a local level, the program is helping shape stronger communities and ensuring more diverse voices are represented in decision making across the region.

Highly Commended 2026 Category: Recognition of a person/project/organisation who have placed a RRR community at its’ centre
www.localbuyingfoundation.com.au and www.rdagw.org.au/news/bowen-basin-women-in-leadership-program-kicks-off-for-2026