Media releases

The Australian Financial Review and Westpac announce 100 Women of Influence

 

24 September 2015

One-hundred of Australia's most influential women have been named for The Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards today.

From high-level managing directors and CEOs of multinational corporations, to public service and armed forces personnel, to entrepreneurs and cultural pioneers, the list represents the diverse and wide-ranging impact women have across Australia.

The awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of women, with 10 winners announced across 10 categories – Board/Management, Public Policy, Young Leader, Social Enterprise and Not-for-Profit, Culture, Global Influence, Innovation, Local/Regional Community, Diversity and Business Enterprise.

Ainslie van Onselen, Westpac Director of Women's Markets, Diversity and Inclusion, said:  "Westpac congratulates the 100 women who are named in the 2015 Women of Influence Awards. The breadth and diverse array of talent is a reflection of the significant impact that Australian women have across the country. They join an illustrious group of Australian females as part of the Women of Influence Alumni.

"The ability to motivate, mentor and inspire is key for successful leadership. The 2015 Women of Influence winners are a reflection of this ideal and represent the high calibre of female role models in Australia for young women. 

"Australia's most influential women know that to create a tangible difference in business today, leaders need to look after their team, while demonstrating strong strategic capabilities and vision," Ainslie said.

Joanne Gray, The Australian Financial Review Boss Editor, said: "The array of influential women who have been recognised this year display many great capabilities and skills, but chief among them are energy and drive and a commitment to something bigger than themselves. The Women of Influence awards impress upon us yet again how vast is the pool of female talent in this country. The awards continue to bring to light extraordinary women, who despite their achievements and because of their humility, might otherwise have remained in the shadows."

In its fourth year, Australian women were nominated for the 2015 Awards in recognition of their outstanding work in their respective fields and ability to inspire those around them. The 2015 winners join an alumnus of 400 of Australia's most inspiring women, including last year's overall winner, Elizabeth Broderick.

A panel of over 70 Women of Influence alumnus  said the key attributes needed to be influential in business are respect and value for people, confidence, good networker and technically capable with a proven track record.

A gala awards evening celebrating the 100 Women of Influence winners and announcing the category and overall winners will be held at Sydney Town Hall on Thursday, 15 October 2015.

For further information please visit: www.100womenofinfluence.com.au. 

¹ Westpac Women of Influence Alumni Report