Women’s Day marked with $150k funding boost

The Western Australian government has announced $150,000 in funding for community projects specifically for women.

Women's Interests minister Margaret Quirk made the announcement during today's International Women's Day celebrations, which she said included a range of interesting and inspiring events throughout the state.

Ms Quirk said the Western Australian Grants for Women Program, established in 2003 and co-ordinated by the Office for Women's Policy, had offered grants for women's community projects totalling $50,000 a year.

After a review of the program, she had increased the funding to $150,000 so more organisations could run programs to support and encourage women.

"Organisations can now apply for amounts of up to $15,000," the minister said.

"I encourage eligible community groups to take this opportunity to support women though important, innovative and sustainable events and programs."

Ms Quirk said that as part of International Women's Day 2006, WA's rural, regional and remote areas would celebrate their diversity through sponsored local events.

"The events support the 2006 International Women's Day theme: 'Reaching for Rights and Recognition' and, in WA, we are focusing on women from the bush," she said.

"Groups from Broome to Esperance are among 15 funded by the Office for Women's Policy to host their own community festivities today.

"WA is fortunate to have many inspirational women and we want to make sure they have the opportunity to share their talents and achievements and to encourage the same in other women.

"International Women's Day gives us a chance to reflect on and acknowledge the efforts of all women, particularly those living in rural, remote and regional areas of the State."

Events in the Perth area include the 'Disparate Housewives' International Women's Day Luncheon, 'Go Girl Go for IT' careers showcase, and the International Women's Day colours of purple, green and white lighting up Kings Park trees.