Women's Network Magazine - Winter 2024 Issue 17

Women's Network Magazine

CHERYL GRAY Chief Executive Officer & Editor cheryl@womensnetworkcomau

BEC McCOAN Content Manager

Editorial team bec@womensnetworkcomau

NICOLE BIRD Membership Officer membership@womensnetworkcomau

Materials and articles in this publication are general comment, not advice The information is believed to be accurate and reliable but no responsibility is taken for any opinions expressed or for errors and omissions Readers should not act on the basis of the material without taking professional advice relating to their particular circumstances We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of any advertisements We are not providing professional advice Links to advertisers’ websites are provided for convenience WNA does not endorse material on those websites, or any associated organisation, products or services represented in this magazine or online We cannot guarantee that software downloaded from advertisers’ websites will be free of computer viruses

Copyright © 1993 – 2024 Women’s Network Australia All artwork created for Women’s Network Australia and contributions remain the property of Women’s Network Australia and cannot be copied or reproduced without permission from the Editor Subscribe Publisher Connect with us womensnetworkcomau @WomensNetwork @women’s-network-australia @womensnetworkaus @WNAAUS Morus Group T/A Women’s Network Australia ABN 70 824 668 791 PO Box 4453, Gumdale Qld 4154 Phone 1800 052 476 Email media@womensnetworkcomau Visit womensnetworkcomau

for

FRONT COVER: Marion Mays, WNA Ambassador

Finance, Money & Property Photography by Kzenia Belova Marion is holding Girls that Invest by Simran Kaur

Contents

Marion Mays

8 SPECIAL FEATURE: Wealth and Confidence

Sue Lester | Rachael Downie | Dianna Jacobsen

Amy Jackson | Samantha Rush 16 MEMBER PROFILE: The Music of Life

Lisa Lockland-Bell

20 Taking your website from drab to fab!

Carlie Clark

22 Top tax tips for 2024

Brownyn Condon

23 How to bring your loved ones along

Shalini Nandan-Singh

24 Five insurance claims you can avoid

Tina Sapoungis

25 Australia's Strategy for Gender Equality

Chris Knight

26 Empowering women: a visual conversation

Kat Lynn

27 Leveraging technology for business innovation

Joanne Brooks

28 Floral history

Interflora Australia

29 What We Love

30 Fundraising through song

Joan Wilson-Jones

Your Story Matters

Sigrid de Kaste

Books & Reviews

Career Unstuck by Charlotte Blair

The Future of Service is 5D by Jacquie Scammell

LightWorkers by Anna Sarelas

Business Directory

Pirkx

Editor's letter

Gray

I’ve never been in business to make money.

And my accountant will attest to that!

For me, running my own business was about being able to focus on what drives and motivates me, beyond paying the mortgage I’ve always been fortunate to have been earning enough to live well

How much do I really know about my financial position? Do I have enough superannuation to see me through retirement, whenever that might be? If something unforeseen happened tomorrow, would I be okay?

It’s when you start asking yourself these questions, you begin to realise that the ‘set and forget’ approach to financial management can leave you short

For a growing number of women, particularly those aged 55+, the harsh realities of life are leading to financial crisis

The number of people experiencing homelessness in Australia has grown 52 per cent in five years, with women making up the vast majority of the newly homeless

The experience of homelessness has become increasingly widespread among older women, growing by almost 40 per cent between 2011 and 2021 to about 7,300 older women (ABS 2012, ABS 2023)

While the shortage of affordable housing and the ageing population has contributed to the rising number of older people experiencing homelessness generally, lower lifetime earnings and savings is especially relevant to many older women’s experiences of homelessness

Given that women are more likely to take leave from the workforce and return to paid employment on a part-time or casual basis, the amount of wealth accumulated is generally lower compared to men (Cameron 2013, Power et al 2018)

Beyond the available statistics are many more women who are ‘the hidden homeless’ - as Teresa Reed from “The Forgotten Women” calls them

The reasons behind hidden homelessness among women are diverse and encompass economic instability, domestic violence, and family breakdowns as leading factors

Inflation, consecutive interest rate hikes, and other challenges of the past year have had an adverse effect on small businesses Female business owners are faring worse, according to Entrepreneurial and Small Business Women Australia (ESBWA)

ESBWA has called for greater support for female small business owners to see them through these challenges by enacting policy reforms aimed at simplifying the tax system, enhancing access to finance for female entrepreneurs, more financial concessions, and creating a more supportive regulatory environment that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by small businesses

In this edition of Women’s Network Magazine, we are Investing In Women - sharing their money stories, tips and techniques to turn things around, and also paying attention to the physical impacts of financial stress and how to maintain wellbeing

Together, we will rise

Cheryl Gray CEO, Women’s Network Australia

Cheryl

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Special feature

MONEY STRONG

Women’s Network Australia Ambassador for Finance, Money & Property, Marion Mays, is well aware of the financial challenges women face at different stages of life. She is ‘money strong’ now, because of the choices she made when she was young and her commitment to ensuring her own financial independence.

Q:Youareapowerfuladvocateforwomen’s financialindependenceandpropertyownership. Whyisthissoimportant?

Itisimportantbecauseourculturehashistorically setupwomentofeeldisempoweredaroundtheir finances Fromanearlyageweromanticise relationshipsanddemonisefemalefinancial independence Theresult?Womendon'tinvestin exercisingthefinancialwellbeingmusclethatiswell withintheirreachtoempowertheirbroaderlifestyle decisions.Womenareincrediblysmartand resourcefulandfinancialfreedomisavailable, accessibleandattainabletoeveryfemale-nomatter theirpresentsituation Ittakesareframenota lotterywintotransformwomen’slives

Ihaveknownextremeabundanceintheformof financialwellbeing,andIhaveknowntheotherend ofthatspectrum–ofnothavingaccesstomoney, norhousingsecurity.

Bothmylivedexperience,togetherwithmyfirsthandengagementasanAmbassadorforStVincent dePaulSocietyhavedemonstratedthatwithout financialwellbeing,weareunabletolivedignified, meaningfullivesbasedonfreedomofchoice Tobe atthemercyofasystemorperson,reliantupon themforourmostbasicneeds,inmyview,isaform ofimprisonment

Istronglybelieveawomanwhohashousingsecurity andfinancialwellbeinghastheopportunitytoliveto herfullestpotential.

Q:Womenagedover55arethefastestgrowing cohortofhomeless.Howdiditcometothis,and whatneedstobedonetoturnthisaround?

Therearemanypathwaystohomelessness; beingraisedinpovertyanddeniedfinancial educationandthencontinuingthesamefamiliar cycleonewasraisedin,forexample Wealsoknow, sadly,thatfamilyviolenceisaleadingfactor

Forsome,itisadifferentstory:ofgreatcareer successandestablishingfinancialstandingthatis thenthwartedbyafamilyseparationandlosing accesstothehousingsecurityandwealththey thoughtwouldalwaysbethere

WhatIregularlyseearesuccessfulprofessional womenwhohavehadgoodcareersyetfailedtoput thefoundationsoffinancialwellbeinginplace–simplethingslikeanemergencyfund,anincome safetybuffer,orforgottoinsuretheirincome

Allittakesisanunexpectedillnessorlifeeventand, withoutthefoundationsoffinancialwellbeingin place,womenareleftwithminimaloptionsbutto exhaustallsickleave Ifillnesscontinues,manyfind themselveswithoutemployment havingusedupall

Photography by Ksenia Belova

Q: Is the Great Australian Dream something that single women are excluded from?

Single women still have access to property ownership in Australia. The reality is it requires us to have extreme behavioural flexibility and not be attached to it happening a certain way. Many women are attached to a “white picket fence” story, when the reality is that entering the property market is more important than being attached to the aesthetics of an unobtainable property dream The modern pathways to property ownership for single women include co-buying (I did it!), rent vesting (buying as an investment property rather than a home to start off), considering regional areas where property is less expensive, exploring the rent-to-buy model that now exists for the first time ever in Australia, and looking at government co-buying schemes and special lending opportunities.

if we have behavioural flexibility, we can do anything, including buying a home as a single woman.

Q: How did your path to becoming “Money Strong“ begin?

Necessity. Both my parents passed in my early 20s so I did not see it as optional I worked hard, and invested young, because there was me and just me I co-bought my first and second assets, both commercial properties, and my third was a residential home which I renovated and flipped

I was raised in a house where there was always enough We never lived beyond our means so my hardwiring was to not ever borrow money for “wants/desires” The only time I borrowed was to buy assets that could go up in value and provide a passive income

I spent a lot of money educating myself in the personal development space which has served me well both personally and professionally

Like many women on the journey of life, I have taken a few unexpected turns and twists, I have had to rebuild several times and I’ve always felt that whilst being emotionally, physically and mentally strong as a woman is important, nothing is as critical as being Money Strong It affords us freedom and choice, which is the difference between being forced to live a life by default rather than by our own design

Q: Tell us about how you work with women and why you’ve dedicated yourself to helping other women?

From my primary school days, I’ve always stood up for the disadvantaged, the marginalised and the excluded. I still do. My parents instilled in me a strong sense of social justice and the notion that my cup is always full, so I have an in-built capacity to give, to help, to support and to champion others

My work with women has evolved over the years, from helping women to enter the property market, to financial education, to realising that doesn’t cut it, as women need financial capability (the confidence and knowledge to implement)

Today I’m most known for my cut-through work with women in establishing financial capability and turning that into financial wellbeing in 90 days It has taken me a decade of trial and error to create the intellectual property and cut-through program that consistently delivers tangible and intangible results for women to change both their relationship and their financial results with money

I love this work with the core of my entire being! It is hard work and there are days when I wish I could make a greater impact There are a plethora of generic money courses online, but the women I work with tell me that having a private and confidential program that is bespoke and highly curated to their unique needs is what enables them to have such rapid tranformation

Continued next page

Belova

by Ksenia

Photography

Q: Tell us about your “super powers” as a Money Coach. What are they and how do you use them?

I’ve walked a colourful life thus far I’ve fully experienced great love and great loss in terms of immediate family and loved ones I’ve lived and worked across three countries and had incredible success

I’ve had near-death experiences and had to navigate the family court system for 15 years I’ve lost everything that mattered and that I needed, and I’ve rebuilt it many times over I’ve been blessed with so much kindness, love and abundance that some days my feeling of gratitude consumes me.

These lived experiences give me the capacity to meet people in any stage or place of life and be able to hold solid calm space for them I have this incredible sixth sense, I know things before clients tell me about them and mostly, I am guided in my work

“I believe as humans when we are deeply witnessed, supported and met in our traumas, capacity for change is a never ending miracle that unfolds ”

I’ve now accepted that I’m attuned to energy at a higher level (more so than I would like to be at times) and my ‘superpower’ is to bring that lived experience, my deep intuition together with my years of technical training to help people have really rapid transformation

The more stuck someone is, the more I’m compelled to help

Photography by Ksenia Belova

Q:Asacoach,howdoyouprotectyourselffromtakingontoomuchoftheemotionalweightfrom yourclients?

TheshortansweristhatIdoalotofself-work Imeditate,Iexercise,I’mcarefulaboutwhatIeat,Ihave mentors,IspendalotoftimealoneorinnatureandIhavesolidemotionalboundaries

Q:Whatisthebestandworstinvestmentyouhaveevermade?

TheworstinvestmentIhaveevermadehasbeenincertainindividuals Insomeinstancesthishascost mehundredsofthousandsofdollars,mymentalwellbeingandtoomuchofmypreciouslifeforceand time–somethingItakeradicalself-responsibilityfor

ThebestinvestmentIhaveevermadeisinmyself Ihavebeencommittedtothestudyofpsychology, behaviouralscience,personaldevelopmentformorethan25years Iwouldnotbeheretodaywithout thatinvestment! Ithashelpedmenavigatetheunthinkableandithashelpedmetodosomanythings, professionallyandpersonally,thatpeopletoldmeIwouldneverbeabletodo

For more information on becoming Money Strong, email Marion Mays or visit www.moneystrong.com.au and www.thaliastanley.com.au

Marion’s tips to becoming Money Strong

1. Find your problem with money and fix it

Meeting reality where it is at, is hard especially when the human brain deletes and distorts information to keep us safe We must get real with ourselves and ask is our problem making, earning or managing money, or perhaps multiplying money-investing

Strangely some people don’t want to spend money to fix a problem that is costing them 10 times more than the investment to resolve it Even if it means they have a reduced quality of life, or limited life options, I say just fix the problem – get help! Every area I have ever had great success in, I can attribute to the many hands that helped me

2. Do the boring stuff

Set up the foundations of wealth, emergency fund, income safety buffer, insure your income, have your life admin in order, continuously invest in yourself, hire mentors, coaches, teachers – be better than you were last year – for you Be a magnet for Luck, the definition of which is “when preparation meets opportunity” Many women want great opportunities but even if they appeared in front of them, they’re not prepared for them.

3. Invest

Buy things that go up in value and have the capacity to produce a passive income so you do not spend your life trading time for money The things I treasure most money cannot buy – not working Monday and Tuesday, slow mornings with my son, being the most present mother I can be, wrestling with my dog, doing pro bono work for those who are so deserving but can’t afford access to help

4. Adopt a can-do attitude

Financial wellbeing is available to all females in any circumstance, tiny steps can make a significant impact to our lives We've been conditioned to accept otherwise but if you can change your attitude you can change your money circumstance too!

Special feature

Simplestepstobecomingwealthywomen andfindingtheconfidencetoact!

Invest in yourself! Yep, we’ve all heard it. But how do we actually DO IT!

Women’s Network Australia asked five of our member experts to share their tips on how to invest in yourself - with confidence, rather than guilt!

We share insights from:

Mindset Expert, Sue Lester

Success Mentor, Author and Speaker, Rachael Downie

Business Development and Financial Strategist, Dianna Jacobsen

Speaker, Facilitator, Consultant and Coach, Samantha Rush

Speaker, Leadership Coach and Facilitator, Amy Jackson

Special feature

Youareyourbestasset!

WORDS BY Sue Lester Mindset Expert sue@suelestercom wwwsuelestercom

Perhaps you don’t think of yourself as an asset? Just consider for a moment that you are the only person who will be with you every moment of your life, from womb to deathbed. Keeping your heart beating and your lungs breathing makes you an asset! Believing other’s and your own self-talk about being a liability just makes it partially so, in the short term at least as you’ll act on your belief.

So, claim back your birthright to be an asset, and let’s look at five key self-investment reminders, finishing with the most important

1 Financial “A man is not a plan” Invest in your own financial education and security now Seek expert advice, but don’t blindly follow it Do your due diligence. Be scam-alert. Be wary of any offers that push your FOMO button That “once in a lifetime” offer comes around surprisingly often You want to be able to relax and enjoy those last 30-odd years postemployment

2 Life Long Learning Keep up with technological changes in both your professional and personal life to maintain independence Learning new knowledge, skills, games and languages stimulates your brain and keeps you interested and interesting Enjoy yourself!

3 Physical Health Endless days of pain and ill-health, barely able to move your body around, dependant on others, is not what most people think of when they wish for a long life It’s so much easier to choose to be happy when you are healthy (Yes, happiness is a choice See 4) Nourish your body with the type and quantity of fuel it needs (each body is different) and move it! “What you don’t use you lose”

4. Emotional Health. This is your ability to manage your moods and feelings You often can’t control what happens in your life, but you can learn to control how you feel about those events and how to deal with those uncomfortable feelings Just denying and repressing isn’t healthy as they will fester and eventually burst free If fear builds up, anxiety forms and your progress freezes Anger will explode and shatter relationships, or fester and make you ill

The key is to feel and release. You can release by talking about it to a compassionate but objective person (or dog), through movement (walk, dance, box, swim), by journalling, getting out in Nature, therapeutically or whatever else you’ve found helps you

5. Mental Health. This is your overall mental wellbeing, including rational thinking, good decision making and managing difficult situations You need this to be able to action the other four keys, and in doing so reinforce your mental health in an ongoing cycle It is crucial you have processed your past so it no longer interferes with your enjoyment of and decisions in your present, which of course create your future If you don’t feel as happy, confident and centred as you know you should be, if things (including people) quickly become overwhelming, confusing, frustrating, then ask for help Like “a stitch in time saves nine”, the sooner you seek help, the quicker and easier it is to find solutions.

Remember, you alone can choose to invest in yourself, but you are not alone. Even a quick skim through the WNA Member Directory will reassure you of that. There are members qualified and experienced to help you in whatever ways you need. Invest in yourself now so you can thoroughly enjoy your present and your future.

Special feature

Youareworthit!

WORDS BY Rachael

Downie

Success Mentor, Author, Speaker rachael@rachaeldowniecomau wwwrachaeldowniecomau

“The most important investment you can make is in yourself.” - Warren Buffett

You are your greatest asset and investing in yourself will give you the best return

What is an investment? A great definition from Google is “Putting capital to use today in order to increase value over time”

Thinking about that – any investment in yourself will contribute to your value

What is value? Value is an internal resource that can’t be measured The amount of confidence you have or how you instil confidence or self-belief in others The potential that you help to draw out of others The belief that you instil in your staff, friends and family The way you make people feel

Investment in the normal way of investing in education, a course, clothing, new car all contribute to you So too does investing in resting, exercise, eating well, recharging. Time out for yourself. Reflection

Every investment will add to your value Now this doesn’t mean that everything is going to go your way You may lose money You may experience something that isn’t for you

These are called learning opportunities You will learn something from every experience that contributes to your wisdom What you will or won’t do in the future

If things don’t appear to go your way – think of it as an education expense!!! I have had a few of these experiences where I have lost money, paid for courses, worked with clients that haven’t worked out

Release these experiences Don’t spend any energy hanging on to these injustices or losses You can’t change the past Let it go Put your focus forward on where you are going and bring the learnings with you

Personal development has been my greatest investment. It has given me the greatest rewards and the value is immeasurable

You can’t go to a shop and buy more confidence or belief in yourself Giving yourself permission to take time out and rest Releasing habits that in the past may have stopped you doing this This is freedom

“To double your net worth, double your selfworth Because you will never exceed the height of your self-image ”

– Robin Sharma

What is something you know that is an investment in you that you have been putting off? Take action today – you are worth it!!!

About the Author

Rachael Downie is a Success Mentor, Author and Speaker She helps people unlock the potential inside of themselves and those around them, be it with their business, their staff or their families

Special feature Simplestepstobecoming WealthyWomen

Invest in yourself first!

WORDS BY Dianna Jacobsen dianna@shineatbusinesscomau wwwshineatbusinesscomau

We’ve all heard the narrative about the ‘gender gap’ in wage rates and superannuation balances. But lamenting the fact will not alter it. Personal empowerment will!

So where do we start? What does that look like? How does it work?

Firstly, stop comparing yourself to ANYBODY else, or your financial situation to others

Kick yourself out of victim mode (no matter how justified you feel) and take control of your OWN wealth and wellness; stop waiting for the world to feel sorry for you

Next, don’t look back at what went wrong or who’s to blame; FACE FORWARD at what you WANT to create, and refocus when you wobble Start a journal outlining the main areas of your life, and outline EXACTLY how you WANT these to look and feel

Life delivers what we focus on and talk about, so be selective regarding where you put your energy! Shed those old barriers and beliefs, excuses you use to stay ‘stuck’ or get sympathy

Make vision boards, with pin ups & printouts of what you’d like to create in life How else can you build the life of your dreams? You need a tangible picture to aim towards, just like building a house

Don’t measure time or cost just FEEEEEEL the feelings of having this, and KNOW it’s coming so GET OUT OF YOUR OWN WAY!!

Finally, it’s time to level up! Visit a friendly accountant and/or financial planner and go over the facets of your financial picture to build financial literacy and empowerment Gain at least a basic understanding of how your tax works, how your superannuation is placed, what insurances you need and how your lending is structured With your trusted adviser, make alterations and decisions as needed Ensure your estate planning is up to date

Most importantly, look at your wealth as far greater than your bank balance or pay slip Include and acknowledge the countless holistic gems, such as your health, family, friendships, children, choices, opportunities, environment, music, pets, ‘treasures’ anything that makes your heart sing!

True ‘wealth’ is about SO MUCH MORE than money and finance! True wealth is about designing your dream, then living it into existence.

BE that which you want to BECOME! Before you know it, by facing forward, you’ll be walking the path that was only a dream and paving the way for more!

TappingintoConfidentYou

WORDS BY Amy Jackson, BPsych (Hons I), PCC team@amyjacksonnet wwwnurturingconfidencecomau

Whenwestepintosomethingnew,beyondour currentcomfortzone,howdoweputasideour nerves,orevenoursenseofbeingan‘Imposter‘to feelconfidentinthemoment?

Manyofuswillhavebeentoldto‘fakeit‘tilyoumake it’,butforsomeofusthatfeelsinconsistentwithour aspirationtobeauthenticbusinessleaders,andcan causeusmorestressinthemoment,ratherthan beinghelpfuladvice.

Inmyarticlelastyear,Iexploredtheideathat Confidenceisn’tafixedstateofbeingthatwearrive atoneday Inmyexperience,Confidenceisastateof fluxthatweexperiencethroughaction-either holdingusbackfromactionorgrowingthrough action

Andthisiswheretheideaof‘fakeit‘tilyoumakeit’ comesin Theideathatifwepretendtobeconfident, wewilleventuallygetconfidentbecausewe’vebeen doingthething Theflipsideofpretendingisthatwe aretellingourbrainsafakestory,andourbrains knowit Itunderminesourtrustinourselves, becausewebuildahabitoutofthefearofbeing foundoutthatwearepretendingtoknowwhatwe aredoing

Insteadoffakingit,Iencourageyoutothinkabout understandingyourselfinthosestatesofbeing ‘confident’vs‘notconfident’*

Bespecific-whatisitlikeforyouwhenyouare feelingconfident,(vswhenyouarenot)inyourphysicalbody inyourthoughts inyourcommunication andinyouractions

Throughthisawareness,wethentapintothoseways ofbeing,inthemomentswhenweneedit

Haveakeypresentationforaprospectiveclientto deliver?

Ratherthanpretendingtobethatconfident businessleader,Iwantyoutoinsteadstepinto ConfidentYou Justforthismoment Thatmightbe shouldersback,itmightbeadeepbreath,itmight bebeingsuperprepared.

Insteadofpretending,youaregoingtodothevery thingsthatConfidentYoudoesthathelpsHer thrive,thatyouknowworkforyou Bychoosingto pickupHerthinkingandbehavioursinthedifficult moments,wepractisewhatitfeelsliketoactfrom confidence,evenifwe’renotyetfeelingconfident Forme,myconfidentselfis‘AmazingAmy’!

IstillneedtotapintoherwhenIknowIamdoing somethingnewandscary,thatIdon’tfeelconfident inyet,orsimplytoday(‘cosyouknowourhormones playaraginggameinthistoo!)

Shehashershouldersbackandherheadheld high

Shestandsalittlemorestill,takesabigbreath andsmilesatpeoplebeforeshestartstalking Shereallylistenstotheroom,thinkingaboutwhy sheisdoingthisforeveryoneelseintheroom, ratherthanabouther

AndsheissomuchkindertomethanImposter Amyis,andthatreallyhelps!

Overtheyears,themoreItapintoher,themoreselfcompassionateIcanbe ‘AmazingAmy’helpsmebe braverinthismomentthanIfeellikeIwillotherwise be

I’mnotfakingit I’mtrustingmyselfthatina differentcontext,thereisaversionofmewhois confidentenough.She’snotfakingit.She’sjustme onabetterday,helpingmewhenI’mfeelinglikeI can’t ThroughthisIbuildtrustandbeliefinmyself, andovertime,buildconfidence Ittakessomeeffort, butoohladies,itissoworthit!

Thesestrategiesdon’tbuildourconfidence overnight,butitalsodoesn’thavetowaituntilwe ‘makeit’ Itbecomesanongoinggrowthoftrustand confidenceinourselves,overtime Eachtimewe practisetappingintoourownconfidence,wecan thenintentionallyreflectontheexperiment afterwards

Whatworkedaboutthat?

Whatwasn’tsohelpful? WhatmightItrynexttime?

Through this proactive practise of reflection (rather than 2am rumination!), we build our skills in stepping in to Confident Enough in the moments we need it It builds far more sustainable confidence over time, becoming a series of actions rather than a destination state

*If you would like to help your people, or yourself, expand your toolkit for tapping into Confident You in the moments you need Her, here are some simple resources that you can work through in your own time:

a great little free tool for people to figure out ‘What does confidence look like to me?’ a short, online course with tools you can use over and over again - Confidence in the moment tools

If you would like to go deeper into this work, please reach out to explore 1:1 coaching with you, or team coaching with your people, either online or in person at my office in Manly, Queensland

Contact Lauren , or check out my website to get more information (and more free resources!)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Jackson is a Leadership Coach, specialising in working with mid-level leaders in complex organisations Her focus is on supporting leaders to step up to the difficult conversations and actions needed to achieve real improvement and transformation in messy workplaces

Spend just a little bit of time bringing your attention to

‘Confident You’ and I am confident you’ll find something to help you take that next step!

Howtomakedecisions withconfidence

WORDS BY Samantha Rush samantha@samantharushcom wwwsamantharushcom

Eventhoughwedoitupto35,000timesaday, makingdecisionscanbeatimeconsuming, stressfulexperience.Especiallywhentheimpactof ourchoicecouldbesignificant,thementalstrain andneedforconfidenceinthedecisionswemake becomeevengreater.

Herearethreetipstomakingdecisionsmore confidently

Identifyandquestionyourassumptions

Ourbrain‘helpfully’makesassumptionsabout people,process,oroutcomes,inanattempttosave theenergythatconsciousthinkingconsumes. Identifyingandquestioningtheautomatic assumptionswehavecanbeapowerfulwaytogain confidenceinyourchoices Askyourself‘what assumptionsamImakingaboutthecontextofthis issue?’,thenvalidatingwhetheryourassumptionis correct,orwhetheryouneedtoseekoutmore information.

Beawareofyour‘coreaffect’

Lotsofresearchhasconfirmedthatour‘coreaffect’, orwhat’sgoingoninourbodies,impactshowwe makedecisions Forexample,beingtiredorhungry canmakeusfeelmorenegative,suspicious,and critical,whichwillinfluenceourchoices Whenfaced withanimportantdecision,checkinwithwhat’s happeninginyourbody.Ifyou’retired,hungry,or stressed,considerhitting‘pause’onyourdecision andcomebacktoitlater

Questionyourinstincttodelay

Decisionscanbeeasytoavoid,waitinguntil‘x’ happens This‘decisiondodging’isasymptomof uncertaintyandambiguitytolerance Wedon’t knowwhattheansweris,sowefreeze Whilethis isanormalresponsetofeelingstressed(along withfightandflight),theconsequencesofdoing nothingcanbesignificant Whenthisfeelinghits you,conductsomereflectiontoidentifywhat’s behindyourinstinct Isitavoidanceand procrastination?Whatisthecostofwaiting?

Member profile

Themusicoflife

LisaLockland-Bellrecentlycelebrated30years sincehercancerdiagnosis.It’sbeenatimeof reflectiononherhealthandwellbeing,music careerandfindinghervoice.Lisasharesher journeythroughtheinterviewbelow.

Q:Musichasbeenaconstantinyourlifeand remainsoneofyourpassionstothisday.Howhas musicinfluencedyourlife?

Musichasbeenlikeatrustedfriend,alwaysthereto liftmeupduringlife'stoughestmoments Growing upinamusicalfamily,Ilearnedtoappreciatethe magicofoperafrommyamazinggrandfather Fightingcancernotonce,buttwice,musicbecame mytherapy,transformingmymoodfromgloomyto hopefulwithitsmelodies Exploringdifferentwaysof healingandseekingadvicefromwisesouls,Ifound myfooting Throughitall,musichasbeenmysaving grace,keepingmestrongandsmilingthroughthe upsanddowns

Fromtheoutset,Iwasblessedwitharobustinternal andphysicalvoice,yetasacreativeintrovert,Ifound myselfdeeplyaffectedbytheworldaroundme

Raisedinatoxicenvironmentthatbelittledmyinner voice,Iinternalisedthenotionthatmyinstinctswere merelythecriesofadramaqueen,dismissedand unwanted Thencamethepivotalmoment–laidbare inahospitalbed,recoveringfromstagefourcervical cancer

Thedoctors'pronouncementthatmybodycould endurenomoretreatmentsservedasawake-upcall AsIgazeduponmyyoungchildren,afiercevoice withinmeerupted,drowningoutalldoubtand despair Itscreamedforaction,forresilience,for survival "Getup,"itdemanded "Stopwallowing Stop blaming Takecharge,foryourchildrenneedyou,and youmustdowhateverittakestoendure"Andso,I did.

Q:Thisyearmarks30yearssinceyourfirstcancer diagnosis Asidefromtheobvioushealthimpacts, whatchangesdidyourdiagnosisbringtoyourlife andwouldyoumakethesamechangesifyouhad thetimeoveragain?

Q:Youspeakabouttheimportanceof‘finding yourvoice‘.Oftenwhenweareledonapathto findsomething,it‘sbecauseitwaslost somewherealongtheway.Isthereapivotal momentinyourlifewhereyoufeltyoulostyour voiceoritwastakenfromyou?

Inthedepthsofmyjourney,Idiscoveredatruthas profoundasitwasempowering:youcannevertruly loseyourvoice

Cancerdidn'tjustknockonmydooronce;itbargedin twice,turningmylifeupsidedowneachtime Whileit mightsoundlikeawildride,I'vecometoseethese experiencesascrucialpartsofmyjourney,guidingme towardmytruepurpose

Despitefacingcancertwice,navigatingtwo marriages,andconstantlyreinventingmyself,I wouldn'tchangeathing.Theseupsanddownshave moldedmeintothepersonIamtoday,fueledbya passiontohelpothersrealisetheirfullpotential Isee myselfasalivingexampleofresilience,standingfirm

Q:TellusaboutUnsungHeroes,TheCarers FoundationAustralia‘smajorannualfundraising galaandwhatit‘slikebeingtheCreativeDirector ofsuchanincredibleeventthatraisedmorethan $380,000initsinauguralyearin2023.

TheUnsungHeroesprojecttrulylivesuptoitsname, celebratingtheeverydaychampionswhooftengo unnoticed Collaboratingwitheightlocalcelebrities, Olympians,andinfluentialfiguresinourcommunity, I'vehadtheincredibleopportunitytowitnessthe heartfeltjourneyofthesebravesouls

Together,westandshouldertoshoulder,embracing vulnerabilityandrallyingsupportforoneofAustralia's mostpressingissues Asourglobalcommunityages, it'sclearthatsupportforthesickandelderlyis laggingbehind Withoutthededicationof organisationsliketheCarersFoundation,ledbythe remarkableRonnieBenbow,countlessliveswould remainintheshadows Howcouldanyoneresist beingpartofsuchameaningfulcause,knowingthat eachcontributionhasthepotentialtomakea profounddifference?It'samissionthatspeakstothe veryessenceofcompassionandhumanity

Q:EstablishingandbuildingPerformanceStudios atLoganholmehasbeenyourmainfocusinrecent years.Whatdirectiondoyouseethebusiness takingintothefuture?

PerformanceStudiosisn'tjustachildhooddream;it's becomeadynamicembodimentofcreativity, ambition,andendlesspossibilities Nurturingthis venturehasbeenakintounderstandinga multifacetedpersonality,brimmingwithideasand aspirationsthathaveevolvedovertime

Q:YourconnectionwithTheCarersFoundation Australiahasstrengthenedoverthepastfew years,canyouexplainyouraffinitytothe organisation?

TheCarersFoundationAustraliaholdsaspecialplace inmyheart,asIintimatelyunderstandboththe significanceofbeingcaredforandthechallengesit presentsonallfronts Inmyquesttogivebacktothe community,Ifoundaprofoundconnectionwith (FoundationCo-Founder)RonnieBenbow,whose visionandcompassionresonateddeeplywithmy ownsenseofpurpose

Throughher,I'vebeengrantedtheopportunityto mergethediversetrainingandexperiencesfrommy life'sjourney,allowingmetoelevatemyroleasa creativedirectorandvocalcoachwhileactively contributingtothewellbeingofothers Thisposition ismorethanjustatitle;it'sacherishedresponsibility thatfillsmewithexcitementfortheupcomingyear I eagerlyanticipatesteppingbackontothestagein 2024,fueledbythebeliefthatthroughourcollective efforts,wecanmakeameaningfuldifferenceinthe livesofthoseinneed

Despitethecountlessrevisionstoourbusinessplan, eachiterationhasbeenatestamenttoourabilityto pivotandadapt atrueartinitself Wetakeimmense prideinthestridesourbusinesshasmadeandthe promisingtrajectoryit'son Positionedasa frontrunnerinvocaldevelopment,Performance Studiosispoisedtobecomeabeaconofopportunity foraspiringyoungsingers

Fosteringacultureofpositivityandsupport,our teachersandstudentsembracediverselearning styles,creatinganenvironmentwhereeveryonefeels valued Overthepasttwoyears,we'venurtured countlessemergingartists,transformedintoastateof-the-arttrainingfacility,andhostedamyriadof events Infact,ClubNoir,ourfunctionvenueonsite hasjustbeenannouncedasa2024Bestof QueenslandExperiencebyTourism&Events Queensland

Thisyear,we'rethrilledtoannounceourcollaboration withrenownedvocalcoachesforagroundbreaking vocalsummit atestamenttoourcommitmentto excellence Withsteelyfocusanddetermination,we're alsoexcitedtomanagetherisingsensation,boyband OnParr,whoseglobalacclaimisalreadymaking waves Staytunedformoreexcitingdevelopmentson thehorizon Together,we'returningdreamsinto reality

Q:Doyouhaveanyregretsinbusinessorinlife? Whatmightyoudodifferentlyifyouhadyour timeagain?

Lookingbackonmyjourney,Ican'thelpbutthink abouttheonethingIwishI'ddonedifferently: doubtingmyowncreativityandintuitionforsolong Ispenttoomuchtimetryingtofitintothemouldof whatIthoughtsophisticationandprofessionalism lookedlike Ittookmeawhiletorealisethatwhat theworldtrulywantedwasjustme authentic, imperfect,andreal

OnceIembracedthistruth,everythingchanged I stoppedholdingbackandstartedtappingintomy woowoosidewithconfidence Itwaslikeaweight hadbeenliftedoffmyshoulders,andsuddenly,Ifelt freetobemyself Now,Istandproudlyinmytruth, knowingthatmyquirksandcreativityarewhat makemeunique.AndasIcontinueonmyjourney,I findcomfortinknowingthatIdon'thavetobe perfecttomakeadifference Ijusthavetobeme

Q:Whatareyourstandoutsuccesses?

Mystandoutsuccessinlife?Simple:I'mstillhere, thrivingagainstallodds

Q:Whatwouldbeyourtopthreetipsforsomeone startinginbusiness?

1.Prioritiseyourhealthaboveallelse Without goodhealth,it'sdifficulttosustaintheenergyand focusneededtosucceedinbusiness Makesureto maintainabalancedlifestyle,includingregular exercise,nutritiousdiet,andsufficientrest

2.Fosteravibrantcompanyculturethatexcites andmotivatesyouandyourteam Createan environmentwhereeveryonefeelsvalued, supported,andeagertocontribute Whenyou genuinelyenjoycomingtoworkeveryday,itnotonly boostsmoralebutalsoenhancesproductivityand innovation

3.Stayagileandadaptablebybeingreadytopivot andreviseyourbusinessplanasneeded Don'tcling rigidlytoinitialstrategiesifthey'renotyielding results Beopentochange,listentofeedback,andbe willingtoadjustyourapproachbasedonwhatworks bestforyourbusinessandyourcustomers.

Remember,flexibilityiskeytolong-termsuccessina constantlyevolvingmarketplace

PhotosbyMarcusWaltersPhotography

6tipstotakeyourwebsite fromdrabtofab

WORDS BY Carlie Clark Owner of Hello Creative Agency

carlie@hellocreativecomau wwwhellocreativecomau

nacustomer’sfirstimpression ofyourbusiness,andfirstimpressionscount! Theyareacrucialpointofcontactbetween companiesandtheirclients.

Ifyourwebsiteconveystherightmessageaboutyou andyourbrand,it’llhelpyoustandoutonline Ifnot, itcanhaveanegativeimpactoneverything,from customerloyaltytoconversionrates Websites shouldbeseenasanessentialpartofyour business’sdigitalpresence-notjustsomethingthat sitsinthecornercollectingdust Herearesixtipsto takeyourwebsitefromdrabtofab!

1.GOODDESIGNISTHEFIRSTSTEPTOAGREAT WEBSITE

Whetheryou’rebuildinganewsiteorrevampingan oldone,thedesignelementwillbecrucialtothe overallsuccessofyourwebsite Designisn’tjust aboutaesthetics althoughthat’sanimportantpart ofit.Italsoincludestheuserexperienceandthe overallfunctionalityofyoursite Apoorlydesigned websiteleavesvisitorsfeelingfrustratedandmay evendrivethemaway Navigationshouldbesimple andintuitiveandleadvisitorstowheretheywantto go inasfewclicksaspossible Thedesignshould beconsistentwiththebrand,usingyourcompany’s coloursandfonts.Awell-designedwebsiteismuch morelikelytokeepvisitorsaround It’seasiertofind whatthey’relookingfor,andthey’remorelikelyto stayonthesitelongenoughtocompletea purchase

2.PLANYOURCONTENTBEFOREYOUBUILD

Beforeyoustartsketchingoutwireframesand creatingmockups,it’sagoodideatositdownand createanoutlineofthecontentyou’dliketofeature onyoursite Thiswillhelpyouorganiseyour thoughtsanddeterminehowthecontentshouldbe displayed It’salsoimportanttothinkaboutyour targetaudiencewhenyou’replanningyourcontent Whataretheirpainpoints?Whatquestionsdothey haveaboutyourproductorservice?Whatproblems doyousolve?Yoursiteshouldbepackedwithuseful informationthathelpsyourcustomersmakean informedpurchasedecision

3.HELPUSERSFINDWHATTHEY’RELOOKINGFOR Yourpotentialcustomershaveaproblem,andthey arelookingforasolution Theyaresearchingfora productorservicethatwillhelpthemmeetaneed

Auser’sexperiencewithyoursitestartsthesecond theytypeyourURLintotheirbrowser Youhaveonly afewsecondstograbtheirattention,keepthemon thesiteandleadthemtowheretheyneedtogo Ensureyourmostimportantinformationisvisibleon thehomepage Youwanttomakeitassimpleas possibleforyourvisitorstofindtheirsolution

4.OPTIMISEYOURWEBSITEWITHSEO

Searchengineoptimisationisanessentialpartofany digitalmarketing Ifyoudon’toptimiseyourwebsite forsearchengines,visitorswon’tfinditwhenthey searchwithaspecifickeyword Ifnoonecanfind yoursite,theywon’tbeabletolearnaboutthe productsorservicesthatyouofferasabusiness With astrongSEOstrategy,youcanincreaseyouronline visibilityandgetmorevisitorstoclickonyourlink Thiscanhelpyoubringinmoreleads,sales,and revenueforyourbusiness.

Bonustip:youshouldalsoSEO-optimiseyour photosbycorrectlynamingthefiles.

5.ADDVISUALSANDVIDEOWHEREPOSSIBLE

Addingvisualsandvideotoyourwebsitehelpsto breakupthetextandmakeyourwebsitestandout Theygivevisitorsabetterideaofyourbrandandthe services/productsyouprovide Thisdoesn’tmeanyou needafull-blownprofessionalphotoshootifthisisout ofyourbudget-justensurethatthephotosareclean, aestheticallypleasingandcohesive Youcaneven repurposeimagesfromyoursocialmediaaccounts

Bonustip:imagescanslowdownyourwebsite speed,soensureyoucompressyourimagesbefore uploading

6.KEEPYOURWEBSITEUP-TO-DATE

Freshcontentisthekeytosuccessforanywebsite If yourcontentiscurrent,youwillbuildengagement andtrustwithyouraudience Thelastthingyouwant isforpotentialcustomerstoclickonyourwebsiteonly tofindapromotionfromChristmaslastyear Frequentlyupdatethewritingonyourwebsitesothat informationisalwaysrelevantandcorrect,andpost regularblogposts Updatingyourwebsitealsohelps builddomainauthority Putverysimply,thehigher yourdomainauthority,thehigheryouwillrankin searches

Business feature

It’sTaxTime!

Get ready with these top tax tips for 2024

WORDS BY Bronwyn Condon Partner Marsh & Partners wwwmarshpartnerscomau

ar end nearing, clients ask about ere’s what to focus on:

x. If you provide any type of p yee, including yourself (you are an employee or director), (car, meals, loans, gym memberships, health insurance incentives etc) then you are in the FBT regime The ATO is targeting FBT this year so even if your liability is nil you should lodge a return to ensure that the ATO cannot go back more than three years on an ATO audit

2. Loans from companies to you or associates. Again this is another high ATO audit area If you have borrowed money from your company or it has paid an expense on your behalf then you need to clean it up before 30 June If you are not compliant with the rules then you are taxed on this income in your name

3. Distributions to children. There is a lot of talk about this in the media and even some court cases trialling the matter At the end of the day, if you distribute funds for tax purposes to your children then you have to transfer the cash to them If you don’t then the ATO calls it a sham and the trust can then be taxed on these monies at 45 per cent

4. Taxplanning. Around this time, we sit down with our clients and review their profit to date, review their estimated profit and tax planning strategies to help minimise the amount of tax that has to be paid to the ATO There are numerous strategies that can be undertaken to help control the amount of tax that is paid.

5 Understand Your Business Structure Different business structures have different tax implications Make sure you understand the tax requirements and advantages of your business entity, and consider whether it might be beneficial to reevaluate your structure based on your current circumstances

6. Maintain Separate Business and Personal Finances. Keep your business finances separate from your personal finances to maintain accuracy, and compliance Use separate bank accounts, credit cards, and accounting records for business transactions, and avoid co-mingling funds This not only simplifies tax preparation but also helps protect your personal assets and liability

7. The Federal Budget. The next budget announcement comes out in May You need to be aware of what changes they are announcing and the impact on you

8. Keep Accurate Records. Good record-keeping is crucial for business owners. Maintaining organised records not only helps you accurately report your income and deductions but also provides documentation in case of an audit

9. Pay on time.We are seeing more and more the ATO instigating debt recovery strategies and even on amounts as small as $200 A simple phone call to the ATO to organise a payment plan is a lot less stressful than receiving a recoveries letter or even worse a director penalty notice and trying to negotiate a plan at this point

10. Lodge On Time. Lastly, make sure to file your taxes on time to avoid late filing penalties.

These tips can serve as a starting point, but it's essential to tailor your tax strategy to your specific financial situation and consult with a professional for personalised advice

Business feature

Howtobringlovedonesalong onyournewbusinessjourney

WORDS BY Shalini Nandan-Singh Founder, Love Your Legals

hello@loveyourlegalscomau

wwwloveyourlegalscomau

Starting a business can stir up emotions in those closest to you. While you're thrilled by the risks and challenges, your loved ones may feel uneasy.

How do you navigate this tension and keep relationships intact?

1 Communication is key Explain your vision and the reasons driving you to start this venture Help them understand your passion and the potential rewards Address their concerns openly and assure them you're prepared for the challenges ahead Be patient and empathetic, recognising that change can be unsettling, especially for those not directly involved in the business

2. Set boundaries to maintain a balance between work and personal life.

Allocate dedicated time for family and friends, demonstrating that they remain a priority Avoid letting business discussions dominate every interaction, allowing space for other topics and activities

3. Seek support from mentors or peers within the business community. Their invaluable insights and experiences can offer guidance and reassurance, easing your loved ones' concerns Additionally, involving them in decisionmaking processes can foster a sense of involvement and understanding

4. Stay adaptable and open-minded.

As your business evolves, so too may your loved ones' perspectives Encourage them to share their thoughts and concerns along the journey Embrace feedback and be willing to adjust your approach accordingly

5 Show your loved ones through your actions that you take this responsibility seriously. Invest in relevant accounting and legal advice, create a marketing and sales plan and keep them informed about your progress

Ultimately, building a business while maintaining healthy relationships is a shared journey that requires empathy, communication, and patience

By addressing concerns openly, setting boundaries, seeking support, and staying adaptable, we can navigate the challenges together and emerge stronger as a family unit

5insuranceclaimsyoucanavoid

WORDS BY Tina Sapoungis tina@jtsinsurancecomau

Asanexperiencedinsuranceprofessional,it’seasyto identifythetopfiveinsuranceclaimsAustralian businessesmake.Moreimportantly,herearesome tipstoimproveyourriskmanagementandavoid havingtomaketheseclaims.

THEFT

Theftandburglaryarethetopclaims Considerthese movestoreducethelikelihoodofyourbusinessbeing thevictimofsuchcrimes

Installwebcamsecurity,includingmotionsensor lights

Lockdoorsandwindows(deadlocksandkey-locks) whenthepremisesareunattended

Bemindfulthatthievesoftenenterthroughadoor orwindow,butcanenterviaceilingspaces

Boostexternallighting

Checkemployees’backgrounds,haveaclearpolicy oninternaltheftandaskthemtobealertto thievingintheworkplace.

Ensurestaffhaveregularanti-theftpoliciesand training

Trackandmanageyourinventorywithadigital system

Storevaluablesandcashinasafeatthecloseof businessdaily

STORMDAMAGE

Stormdamageclaimsrankhighlywiththeincreasein stormseverityandfrequency Leakingroofs,waterdamagedstock,orpowersurgescandamageand disablemachineryorelectricalequipment

Here’showtoprotectyourbusiness:

Regularlymaintainyourroof,ceilingsandroofspace (Iftenanted,ensurethelandlordregularlyconducts maintenanceofthestructure/premises)

Checkandroutinelyclearblockedguttersand drains

Identifyfloodingorwaterpoolingrisksonyoursite (withtheassistanceofaplumber)andmake adjustmentstobettermanageanddirecttheflow awayfromyourbuilding

Trimexcessvegetation,especiallytreesoverhanging yourbuilding

Securelyanchoroutdoorequipmentorfurniture andstorelooseitemsundercover Turnequipmentandcomputersoffatthepower pointtopreventpotentialsurgedamage

LIABILITYCLAIMS

Publicorproductliabilityclaimsarealsocommon, makinguponeinsevenclaims.Minimiseyour exposuretobeingoutofpocketfordamagetothird parties’propertyorinjurytopeople

Examplesincludeoneofyourstaffbackingintoa client’svehicleorstructure,avisitortrippingatyour premises,burstwaterpipesthatdamageequipment ataneighbouringbusiness,oryourproducts causinginjuryordamagetocustomersorthird parties

Thesetipswillhelp:

Ensureyouhavefit-for-purposequalityassurance controlstominimisetheriskofproductliability claims

Keepwalkways,floors,steps,andstairsdryand clearoftriphazards

Considerwhereyoucanimprovevisibilityin theseplaceswithextralighting

Restrictpublicmovementinandaroundthe moredangerouspartsofyourbusiness,suchas wheremachineryisrunning,orhazardous materialsarestored

Adoptpoliciesandsystemstomakesurestaff handleclients’propertycarefully

PROPERTYDAMAGE

Accidentalandmaliciouspropertydamageis anothermajorconcern,withsomeinsurerssaying theyaccountformorethanhalfofoverallclaims Be sureto:

Maintainyourbusinesspremiseswithregular repairsandservicing

Improveyoursecuritytodetervandalsandother maliciousdamage

Removewastematerialpromptlyfromyoursite ratherthanletitbuildup

MACHINERY/EQUIPMENTBREAKDOWN

Toreduceyourriskofmachineryorequipment breakdown,whichcannegativelyimpactyour business,trytheseapproaches:

Doplanned,programmedmaintenanceand servicingofyourmachineryandequipment. Storetheseitemsappropriately Keepelectricalconnectionsfreeofclutterand dust

Ensureyourgearisusedonlyasintended Attendtoanyincidents,nearmissesorconcerns youroperatorsraise

HaveaplanB–abusinesscontinuityplanforthe unexpected

Knowingthemainrisks,andhowtobettermanage them,meansyou’rebetterequippedtoprotectyour business

Issue in Focus Australia’sNational StrategyforGender Equality

WORDS BY Chris Knight

Director, Inspirational Connections

Soroptimist International Global Ambassador grachris@iprimuscomau linkedin chris-knight-906a7034

Well, the annual Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) held in New York in March 2024 is done and dusted for another year.

The priority theme was: Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective

How long winded is that statement and what exactly does it really mean anyway? In simple terminology it means a more focussed approach to gender equality including additional finances to improve access to and delivery of services and taking action on the specific areas that impact on women’s lives including their health, safety and financial security and identifying where the gaps still exist Each member state (country) provides a response on what their respective governments have been doing to address these issues

Australia had an impressive delegation of government and officials representing women’s peak groups including Soroptimist International Daily briefings were held to provide feedback during the two weeks of deliberations to come up with an agreed conclusion on what member states will focus on for the coming year Meanwhile out in the community space, more discussions were held with non-government organisations at parallel (live and hybrid) events where delegations from around the world met to share projects, exchange information, assess where the gaps still remain and identify what needs to be done to improve the lives of women and girls Many of these parallel forums are also key to securing funding and bringing a grass roots perspective to the work that women are doing locally and internationally by utilising their collective skills and resources

The Australian Government released the 2024 Status of Women Report Card on the eve of International Women’s Day that summarises statistics and key areas of focus This data was informed from expert independent groups and the voices of thousands of women around the country

Didyouknow:

Only9%ofCEO’sintheASX300arewomen Australiahasthe4thhighestleveloftertiary educatedwomenintheOECD Australiaisranked26thforgenderequality internationally 83%ofoneparentfamiliesaresinglemothers 26%ofwomenwhorecentlyexperiencedsexual harassmentexperienceditatwork 1in5womenand1in16menhaveexperienced sexualviolencesincetheageof15 55%ofwomenexperiencingmenopause symptomsreportednegativeimpactsontheir mentalandemotionalwell-being.

Itisnowacknowledgedbygovernmentsthat women’sequalityisakeyfocusandacorepriorityfor improvingtheeconomicsecurityforallwomenwho arestilltheprimarycarers,havelessopportunityto ensurethattheirlifetimesavingswillbesufficientin retirementandthatthisisfurthercompoundedwith risksassociatedwithhomelessness,poverty,and ongoinghardship TheAustralianGovernmenthas committedtoagreatercommitmentacrossallpolicy areasatalocalandinternationallevelthatfocuseson howsafetyandeconomicequalityintertwines

Women’sRightsareHumanRightsandthereare severalorganisationsandindividualsadvocatingfor anAustralianHumanRightsAct,aWellbeingActand theneedformorededicatedfundingtoaddress thesegenderinequalities Wewaitinanticipationof anincreasedallocationoffundinginthenextFederal BudgettobereleasedinMay2024

“Our strategy is called Working for Women because when our government systems, our economy and our society work for women, they work for everyone” -SenatorKatyGallagher,MinisterforWomen,March2024

Source https://genderequalitygovau/status-women-report-cards/2024-report-card

Special feature

Empoweringwomen

visual conversations with six women living extraordinary lives

WORDS BY Kat Lynn

Owner/Creative Director,

Sonny & Kat Photography + Foodie Shots

kat@foodieshotscomau

wwwfoodieshotscomau

wwwsonnyandkatphotographycomau

As the creator of an extraordinary exhibition at Toowoomba‘s Lighthouse Write Gallery during March 2024, Kat Lynn captured the extraordinary stories of six ‘ordinary‘ women.

The aim of the Empowering Women: Visual Conversations Exhibition was to share the stories of six amazing women who have been in the darkest of shadows yet have chosen to see the light and create ripples of change within our community

CARMELTULLOCH: WHEREITALLBEGAN

IhavealwayscalledCarmelmyphoenix A gracefulladywhorisestimeandtimeagain evenstrongerandmorevibrant

GAYHOLD: THESTORIESWETELLOURSELVES Iunderstandchallengesinpeople’slives becausepossiblyI’vebeenthroughitmyself

The conversations were held in the studio while I captured the the images in a way that reflected the honesty of these powerful stories. They are all inspired by genuine emotions and curiosity

See and read the stories of Empowering Women here. Kat is also working on an idea to feature the visual stories of six men at a similar exhibition in May 2025.

Visit The Write Gallery, at The Lighthouse, Toowoomba

CHRISMORRIS: THEGENIEISOUTOFTHEBOTTLE

We’realltryingtofindourfeetinthisworld tryingtogetthroughwhatevertheendlooks likeforthatperson toliveyourauthentic life,itcanbehard

BECJOHNSON: ITWILLNOTDEFINEME

Iwas94kilosandIhatedhowIlookedand wasdesperatetoloseweight SofarIhave lost22kgsthankstocancer

SHELLEY: STRONGMIND,STRONGBODY,STRONG SPIRIT

“Ihavetoldmystoryhundredsoftimesto people Ihaveneverseenmystorytold Thankyou,thisisspecial”

JENSHAW: AMOTHERTOMANY

Itendtoseethemabitdifferently Wemay noteverbeprivilegedenoughtoseewhat theyhavelearnt

Special feature

Leveragingtechnologyforbusiness innovationandefficiency

WORDS BY Joanne Brooks

Certified Expert BEEKonnected joanne@navig8bizcom wwwnavig8bizcom

Small businesses must embrace technology to stay competitive In this article, WNA Ambassador for Leadership and Coaching, Joanne Brooks shares insights on how integrating technology can revolutionise your operations, aligning with her "Hi Tech, Hi Touch" motto

In a world where efficiency and connectivity are paramount, leveraging technology not only streamlines operations but also enhances your ability to connect with customers on a deeper level Tools and platforms designed to integrate seamlessly into your business model enable you to focus on what truly matters – building meaningful relationships with your clients

The ability to adapt and innovate is crucial As a business owner, you’re often required to wear multiple hats – Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Recruitment Officer, and even Chief Inspiration Officer This multifaceted role can become overwhelming, especially when relying on manual processes or outsourcing, which are both costly and time consuming

My motto, “Hi Tech, Hi Touch” is more than just a phrase – it’s a strategic approach that blends technological efficiency with personal connectivity By adopting the latest technologies, we don’t just automate processes, we enhance our interactions and relationships with customers, making every touchpoint more meaningful and impactful Here’s one of the foundational platforms I use and recommend for small business:

TheBEEKonnectedplatformrevolutionises networkingbyconnectingyoudirectlywithother businessprofessionalsandpotentialclients Itisthe preferredplatformofWomen’sNetworkAustralia BEEKonnectedusessophisticatedalgorithmsto ensurethatconnectionsarerelevantandfruitful, facilitatingcollaborationsthatcanleadto substantialgrowth

TheBEEKonnectedplatformislikeanonion Forwardfacing,it’savirtualplatformwithamazing capabilitiesthatenableyoutogenuinelyconnect withyouraudienceandhavethemengagewithyou throughthevirtualscreen That’soneelement InthebackendofBEEKonnectedyouhavea communityofbusinessowners,proactively connecting,buildingrelationships,collaboratingand offeringtheirservices

Itreplacesallyourcurrentvirtualplatforms Itreplacesyourcurrentstreamingplatform It’salearningmanagementsystemtodeliver youronlinecourses,paidwebinarsandgroup functionality

It’sasystemthatrewardsuserswhogetpaidfor introductionsandreferrals

It’s‘HiTech,HiTouch’,andprovidesaconcretepillar fromwhichtogrowyourbusiness

SignuptoBeeKonnectedNOW

Floralhistory

Beforetheinternet,therewasInterflora,thego-to floraldeliveryservicenowcelebrating70yearsin business.

Farfromwithering,theInterfloraAustraliabrand continuestoblossom,takingongiftlinesand investinginnewtechnology.

Embracing e-commerce was pivotal for Interflora Australia's evolution, according to Marketing Manager Alara Karayalcin

“Interflora Australia recognised the shifting consumer behaviour and the importance of providing convenient online services To realign our operations, we invested in bespoke online platforms, and implemented digital marketing strategies to support our adaptation to the online environment,” Alara said “In addition, we recently transitioned and rebuilt the website from the front and backend to support the ever-changing needs of digital and ecommerce”

Importantly, the company worked closely with its network of local florists, offering them training, technological support and incentives to transition smoothly into the digital landscape

The floral business remains at the core of Interflora, while also expanding into online gifts from plants, hampers, soft toys, alcohol and candles to meet a wider market

What hasn’t changed, according to Alara, is the essence of ‘giving’

“Whether it's a bouquet of flowers or a personalised gift, the sentiment behind the gesture remains constant,” she said “Interflora is committed to preserving this essence by curating high-quality products, offering personalised experiences, and ensuring seamless delivery through our network of local florists Our focus is on creating memorable moments and fostering connections, regardless of the medium through which the gift is sent”

Having survived the internet revolution, Interflora Australia continues to look to the future

“In the next decade and beyond, Interflora aims to further innovate and expand its offerings while staying true to its core values,” Alara said “We envision leveraging emerging technologies to enhance the customer experience, exploring sustainability initiatives to reduce our environmental footprint, and expanding our global reach through our 70,000 florists world-wide, servicing over 150 countries”

Adapting to consumer preferences and market dynamics is the secret to ensuring Interflora remains a leader in the gifting industry

Australia's online floral gifting sector is witnessing remarkable expansion. Currently valued at $450.2 million, projections indicate a steady climb, with an anticipated growth rate of 6.3% from 2024 to 2029. At interflora.com.au, a gift is purchased every six minutes, with an average order value of $138.

WINA$150INTERFLORAVOUCHER!

TocelebrateInterfloraAustralia’s70thbirthday, twoluckyWomen’sNetworkMagazinereaderswill eachwina$150vouchertouseonabeautiful arrangementoffreshflowers.

Towin,simplyemailtheWNAteam (admin@womensnetwork.com.au)andtellusthe nameofyourfavouriteflower.

Winnerswillbenotifiedviaemailon30June2024. Vouchersremainvaliduntil30June2025.

WHAT WELOVE

From the art you wear, to the conversations you have

These are the things we love!

She Wear

“Putting the WOW in work for women”! Women need (and deserve) great work and safety gear, but the choices are severely limited She Wear provides greater options, better fit and superior safety all in the one space, made especially for females!

She Wear Footwear, accessories, workwear and PPE

Wearable Art

Created by artist, Natarscha Schneider in her captivating minimalist style, each shirt is a celebration of the wearer’s fabulousness! Don’t miss the chance to own a unique creation that elevates personal style and also stands as a symbolic representation of strength, grace and self-love.

Natarsha Schneider

Diversity and Inclusion Resource

Deck of Diversity is a versatile resource for educators and parents, fostering conversations on diversity and inclusion while empowering self-understanding A comprehensive Teacher’s Pack is also available and is aligned with the Australian Curriculum Deck of Diversity

$39.95 or $99.95 for the Teacher’s Pack

Eso Coffee

One With Art From $250

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Wellbeing feature

Fundraising throughsong

WORDS BY Joan Wilson-Jones Owner, JWJ Consulting joan@jwjconsultingcom

wwwjwjconsultingcom

It’s 4.00 am and I haven’t slept. Sleep has become a distant memory Four to five sheet changes a night is now the norm (bone tumours cause massive night sweats) and then there is the pain relief, showering and toileting, the attempts to get even tiny amounts of sustenance ingested, the laundry, the cleaning (chemo destroys the immune system, dirt and germs are massive threats), the list goes on and on. Visitors come, mostly doctors and nurses, sometimes friends Rarely does anybody ask after me. I’m invisible, I’m exhausted, I’m lonely, I’m terrified – I’m the carer

I cared for my husband Philip from his cancer diagnosis in 2002 until his death (at home) in 2007 Now I’m determined to do all I can to support other carers – the real Unsung Heroes in our community

The statistics tell us that there are approximately 2.7 million carers in Australia I know it’s much higher than that That is the official figure The number of carers accessing government services I was never counted in those figures There are carers as young as 8 years old They are losing their childhood Around 30 per cent of carers die before the person they are caring for from the exhaustion and stress of caring Many take their own lives because it just gets too much There are people who have been caring for over 40 years, with no respite and no time off This must change

After Philip died, I wrote a book for carers (‘Who Cares’), and through the book I connected with The Carers Foundation Australia (a registered charity since 2015) I am now a proud Ambassador for The Foundation, plus I facilitate the wellbeing and selfcare components on their carer programs. The Foundation needs our help The three million-plus carers in Australia need our help The programs are fantastic; however, carers also need respite Currently, the only way they get respite is to become so ill that they are admitted to hospital

Along with a group of other community-conscious business people, I am participating in the Unsung Heroes fundraising event to raise money for a wellbeing and connection centre for carers It will be a place where carers can come for support and rejuvenation A place where carers will be cared for

On 5 October, we will take the stage at The Fortitude Music Hall to sing at the Gala Event Our ticket to sing is to raise at least $20,000 each

I’m collecting donations (fully tax deductible) and organising fundraising events – together we can bring this centre into being

As well as donations, there are opportunities for corporate sponsorship A great way for businesses to show their commitment to community. Or you could attend my fundraising luncheon in Brisbane on 9 August Tickets available here

Let’s do this! Let’s make this life saving and life changing centre a reality Some three million carers are depending on us

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has ” Support Joan’s fundraising campaign by scanning the QR code!

– Margaret Mead

Fundraising through song

Special feature

Lander&Rogersleadingthewayforwomeninlaw

Best Lawyers has included more than 80 practitioners from Lander & Rogers in its 2025 edition

The annual listing, which is based on peer nomination and feedback, recognises the expertise and professional achievements of legal professionals in two categories: The Best Lawyers in Australia™, and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Australia™. In this article, we get to know two of those Best Lawyers: Family & Relationship Law Partner, Genevieve Dee, and Workplace Relations & Safety Partner, Shannon Chapman, both from the Lander & Rogers’ Brisbane office.

Dancing to her own beat

GENEVIEVE DEE

In just four short years, Genevieve Dee has grown the Family & Relationship Law team for Lander & Rogers in Brisbane from two to 13 talented and committed professionals

As she approaches two decades’ as an accredited family law specialist, Genevieve has embraced the opportunity to lead and mentor other lawyers –particularly young women in the profession

She is Deputy President of the Queensland Law Society (QLS), having held various QLS committee roles, including the Professional Conduct Committee, working to improve professional standards and protect consumers

Genevieve is also President of Women's Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), a for-purpose, notfor-profit providing free legal advice and other key support services for at risk women and children

Her involvement with WLSQ is near and dear to her heart, having personally raised over $100,000 for the organisation as a ‘Dancing CEO’ –a competition that sees business leaders fundraise and take to the stage to perform in front of a packed City Hall crowd

Despite her heavy workload, Genevieve will take to the stage again in this year’s ‘All Stars’ Dancing CEOs event on Saturday 25 May, in Brisbane

While not a fan of the limelight, Genevieve does encourage young lawyers and seeks to provide an environment in which they can shine

“Lander & Rogers champions staff wellbeing and this is something I emphasise through my leadership role,” Genevieve said.

“I have the privilege of being a voice for women and helping people find a fresh start after a relationship or marriage ends I am passionate about seeing women succeed in professional life and being celebrated for the commitment they show

“As a leader and mentor, I want to pass on this passion and privilege to others in the profession As a mother of twin boys and stepmother to two other wonderful children, I am passionate about providing women with opportunities to learn, grow and thrive,” Genevieve said.

“This is why I am enormously proud to be a mentor and pave the way for women to flourish and succeed in a traditionally male-dominated industry”

Image: Genevieve Dee

The best is yet to come... SHANNON CHAPMAN

Workplace Relations & Safety Partner Shannon Chapman practices in the areas of employment law, industrial relations and safety. She specialises in complex employment and industrial litigation and disputes and has experience representing clients in conciliation conferences, mediations and hearings in all relevant state and federal jurisdictions, including the High Court.

We asked Shannon to tell us more about what inspired her to take up law, and some of her interests outside the courtroom.

How long have you been practicing law? Did you always want to be a lawyer?

I started as a graduate in 2005 and was admitted in 2006 I initially was a commercial litigator and made the transition to my current area of practice in 2009

I did always want to be a lawyer - I used to watch Perry Mason as a child with my Nonna, which clearly influenced me!

What do you love most about the work you do?

The variability of topics that I deal with on a dayto-day basis I also love the opportunity to assist pro bono clients and have recently had the opportunity to train lawyers at the Central Australian Women's Legal Service in employment law issues

What has been your greatest career success so far?

Both are still underway! But really, the opportunity to build both a practice and a team from literally ground up When I started at the firm in November 2020, there was no workplace relations and safety team in Brisbane We are now at nine and growing

What’s the best piece of business or career advice someone has given you?

Be a good human - and don't work in a place that doesn't value diversity of thought and style

How do you take care of yourself and maintain good mental health, given how busy your work life is?

I have a big garden at home and like to grow fruits and veggies and make lots of yummy goodies out of them I've also danced for a long time and am currently doing Flamenco dancing, which is exceptionally hard and takes my mind off everything

If you could do one thing differently in terms of your career or education, what would it be?

I would take some more courses in practical life skills and creative outlets for personal development In terms of my professional career, I would challenge some of my earlier thinking about career pathways and options

If you had an extra two hours in your day, how would you spend it?

Learning how to sew I have wanted to learn for a long time but always get distracted and can't seem to apply myself!

Image: Shannon Chapman

Social Scene

Nationalnetworking

It’sbeenbusystartto2024withnetworkingevents inToowoomba,SydneyandMelbourne,and InternationalWomen’sDayfunctionsinBrisbane andHobart.

Wealsohostedafull-daybusinessdevelopment workshopinLoganholme,Queensland,whichwasa greatwaytokickstartthenewyearwithpurpose

Social Scene

InspiringinclusiononInternationalWomen’sDay

WNAproudlypresentedour2024IWDevent“Inspire Inclusion”on5MarchatTheLussh,inBrisbane,featuring panellists(picturedleft)MargauxParker,JessicaRitchie, LauraLewisandJenaeTien Asexpected,wehadan insightfuldiscussioncoveringtopicssuchasfindingyour voiceandlearninghowtouseit,howtoovercomediverse challengesandtheimportanceofwomensupporting otherwomenandbuildingeachotherup

Thiseventwassupportedbymanyvaluablecontributors toourluckydoorprizeraffle,aswellaseventsponsors Lander&Rogers,HelloCreativeAgency,Performance Studios,RubyRedJewellery,LINKBusinessSolutions, JTSInsuranceSolutionsandSheWear ■

When I first step onto the stage, my hope is that at least one person will listen and feel inspired Women need to hear this message - that they’re beautiful, worthy, loved This is important work and I feel very privileged to be able to do it.

I had a difficult childhood

Both my mother and I were abused by my father He would not allow us to have any friends, our movements were restricted and constantly monitored I grew up afraid, unworthy, unlovable

In my early 20s, I lost my beautiful mother to breast cancer She was my best friend, my protector, my anchor I felt her loss beyond words, beyond measure

success Hard earned? Yes!

I feel that I live a priv unshakable belief in forward.

I believe that when tools, resources and succeed, they will cr change, not only in families and in their

This is why I have ta story, my pain, my t encourage women, thrive

Continued next page

There was a time, in my younger years, when I desperately sought validation and acceptance outside of myself

I’ve done the inner work, I’ve faced my demons and I have come to know my worth Today, I know my power Today, when I walk into a room, I stride in with confidence

People will judge us. Let them. They don’t know our worth, our strength, the battles we’ve fought to get here

The one thing that ALWAYS lifts my spirits is wearing my TUTU Because, how can anyone feel sad when you’re wearing tulle! Seriously!

Please, don’t let anyone stop you from wearing whatever makes your heart SING!

Live by this motto When in doubt about what to wear, OVERDRESS for EVERY occasion

Then sit back and enjoy the judgement!

Kassandra crafts beautiful, unique pieces of jewellery for the woman who is unafraid. She is hosting the Pagoni Fashion Show 2024 on 2 June at Mirra Events, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane Tickets and information here

Reach out to Kassandra at www.pagoni.com.au or kassandrathespeaker.com

Issue in Focus

DiggingDeeper

Workplace violence and harassment in the

spotlight

A new documentary investigates experiences of violence and harassment in workplaces in Georgia and Australia, after a major worldwide poll found the two countries to be at opposite ends of the scale in terms of the reported prevalence of the issue.

The documentary, ‘Digging Deeper’, by Susan Maybud – an international consultant on gender equality and former Senior Gender Specialist at the International Labour Organisation (ILO) – sought to understand drastic disparities in the levels of workplace violence and harassment reported to the World Risk Poll in different countries, focusing on Georgia (formerly part of the Soviet Union) and Australia as two of the most contrasting examples

The Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, a unique global study of risks to people’s safety, highlighted Australia as reporting some of the highest levels of violence and harassment in the world, compared with some of the lowest in Georgia

The Poll, conducted by Gallup, surveyed 125,000 people across 121 countries on multiple safety topics and found that 48 per cent of respondents in Australia said they had experienced some form of violence and harassment in the workplace in their lifetime, compared to under four per cent in Georgia

The documentary explored the situation in the still relatively new private sector in Georgia, where active efforts are being made to educate workers and reform laws and regulation to make reporting violence and harassment easier Despite the low figures reported in the Poll, local experts suggested that stigma and a lack of understanding may be causing underreporting of a still significant problem The documentary explores proactive efforts being made by government, unions and employers working towards ratification of the ILO’s landmark Convention 190 on eliminating violence and harassment in the workplace

InAustralia,acontrastingstoryisexplored Inpart becauseofmovementssuchas‘MeToo’andhighprofilecasesofworkplaceviolenceandharassment surfacinginthemedia,manyworkers,especiallyyoung women,appeartofeelmoreablethaninmanyother countriestorecogniseandreportcases.Aclear understandingofwhatisandisn’tacceptableinthe workplace,aswellasimprovedreportingprocedures andregulationsmeanthatAustralia’shighfiguresin thePollmaybebetternewsthanitfirstappeared

Discussingthedocumentary’sfindings,SusanMaybud said:“Onpaper,AustraliaandGeorgiaarein completelyoppositesituationswhenitcomesto violenceandharassmentintheworkplace.

“Itwasfascinatingtobeabletofilminbothofthese countriesandexaminethefactorsbehindreportingin eachlocation ”

“There’s more to the figures than first meets the eye, to which this documentary provides important context.”

SusanMaybudsaid: “InAustralia,whilereported experienceisalarminglyhigh,itisencouragingthat thisdoesatleastseemtorepresentagrowing recognitionofwhatconstitutesviolenceand harassmentandaresolvenottotolerateit Thisisan essentialfirststeptotacklingtheproblem

“InGeorgia,whilemoreworkneedstobedoneto educatepeopleandprovideeffectivemethodsof reportingandresponse,underreportinghasbeen acknowledgedandpositiveeffortsarebeingmade”

Watch the full ‘Digging Deeper’ documentary here.

Health & wellbeing

ShiningaLightonInvisibleIllnesses

WORDS BY Chris Knight Director, Inspirational Connections

Soroptimist International Global Ambassador grachris@iprimuscomau linkedin chris-knight-906a7034

ShiningaLightonInvisibleIllnessesisacollaborative projectcoordinatedbySoroptimistInternational MoretonNorthInc (SIMNI)withsupportfromThe BrainAwarenessCentre,inCaboolture,Women’s NetworkAustralia,KairosCommunityCollege,Civic SolutionsandSharetheDignity Overthecoming months,aseriesofworkshops,onlineinterviews, podcasts,videos,advocacycampaigns,researchand aconferencewillbeheldtopromotegreater awarenessandknowledgewithinthefamily,the medicalprofession,theworkplaceandwithinthe community

SowhatareInvisibleillnesses?Theycanbeboth complexandvarieddependingontheindividualand oftenrelatetoconditionsthatarenotalways outwardlyvisiblebutcansignificantlyimpactonthe dailylivesofthosewhohavebeendiagnosedwithan invisibleillness Theycanincludepeoplethatwemay carefor,ourneighboursandfriendsandthepeople thatwemayworkwithincludingourcustomers/ clients Understandingthedifferenttypesofillnesses includingpeoplewhohavebeendiagnosedwithan AcquiredBrainInjury(ABI)andthechallengesthat theyfaceandbylisteningtotheirlivedexperienceof beingtreateddifferentlywillenableustobeapartof dispellingthemythsandassumptionsandmore importantlytoremovesomeofthestigmasand discriminationsthattheyfacejusttryingtolivetheir bestlife

Manypeoplemaylookfineandconsequentlymay havetheirsymptomsquestioned,misdiagnosed,or leftuntreated Sometimesthetreatmentplanscan includeextensive(andexpensive)testingtotryto eliminatecauseandeffectsandmayincludeheavily prescribedmedicationthatcanhaveasignificant impactontheirphysical,social,mentalhealthand wellness

Proudly Supported By

It can also impact on their capacity to work and can increase the risks of poverty and becoming homeless There are also long wait lists in trying to access appropriate medical care and support services especially for those who are marginalised and/or living in rural and remote areas Recovery can also be a long journey and can include acute care, rehabilitation and returning home A great deal of patience is also required of all involved as everyone adjusts to living life a little differently

The impact on women is further exacerbated as they are often the primary carers for their children, extended family and their elderly parents who may have an invisible illness Many experience isolation and burn out with no ‘me time’ to recharge the batteries Raising awareness and creating safe spaces and places where people are comfortable, feel respected, believed, and treated with dignity is something that we can all contribute to, and it can start with a simple process of having a cuppa and having a Casual Conversation about…

Keep an eye out for people who wear a sunflower –this symbol is recognised globally as someone who may have an invisible illness and may need assistance or just a little more time to do things I would love to hear from our WNA members who might like to contribute to this important community project

“To make a difference in someone’s life, you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful, or perfect You just have to care ”

- Mandy Hale

For more information, please contact:

SIMNI/WNA Member Chris Knight on +61 403 177 012 or email simoretonnorth@siswp.org

OR

Jo Stevens from The Brain Awareness Centre on +61 493 838 171 or email thebrainawarenesscentre@gmail.com

Health feature

Investinginyourhealth

WORDS BY Marney Perna hello@kiniquecom wwwkiniquecom

Now is the perfect time to invest in your health!

Ignore health hints at your peril. Women are very good at putting themselves last There is always a perfectly good reason to delay working on their health, however the body has a way of showing the outcome of being too complacent. Illness and disease!

Stress is the number one contributor to ill health without exception Stress activates the adrenal system, which is the body’s centre of immune response Stress on its own is not the bad guy, in fact some stress is good for the body It is when stress is unremitting or continual that it causes health challenges

How often have you been too busy to address a health concern, maybe there is a strict deadline approaching, everyone else is too busy, you do the job better than most, it’s your ‘project baby’! Do the phrases “I will fix it when I go on holidays”, “Next week I’ll have more time”, “Soon, I will check it soon”, “It’s nothing and will go away by itself”, sound familiar?

In hindsight, none of these excuses or statements help your current health crisis Day one of your holiday, you get sick! The Dr said, “if only you had come in sooner” Your mind is also being an annoying I told you so!

As a qualified stress management consultant, I offer these suggestions for managing the build-up of stress that could be impacting your health

Imagine you have a stress (illness) bucket and a life energy (wellness) bucket. Your life energy bucket needs to be fuller to be in control of your health Name your buckets, it gives them meaning

Identify your stress triggers – information is key to finding solutions. Keep the small triggers out of your stress bucket – it allows space for some of life’s curve balls

Be proactive, not reactive – make time for those annual checkups and tests. Allocate time for self help techniques and tools – make a nonnegotiable ‘me time’ appointment in your diary Kinesiology, yoga, exercise, Tai chi, massage are all good examples of helpful therapies

Create a 10-point visual poster of things that make you smile, feel good or just connect with your soul – these help to replenish your life energy bucket

Socialise with people who uplift you – remove and release energy vampires

Acquire a great attitude – attitudes are one of the unique universal human graces – so choose a fabulous one! Remembering to be kind to your mind!

How do you know if you are not managing your stress triggers? Professional women will often mention, they are not stressed, they are just busy! However, when being too busy affects your moods, sleep, and energy, then ‘Busyness’ becomes a substitute name for stress Subtle and not so subtle indications you are not performing at your best can be exhaustion, indecision, self-doubt, making unusual mistakes, reacting with anger, sobbing uncontrollably, depression, anxiety and vague physical symptoms

If you answered yes to one or several of the above, your adrenal system is under duress Reach out to your doctor or professional therapist and start to address the stress in your life It is imperative for good health and wellness, that you take care of yourself It is not being selfish to establish a good personal health regime Your investment of time and action will repay you with amazing health results, helping you to feel great and enjoy an abundance of energy and vitality.

Health feature

Whenbreastfeeding doesn’tcomenaturally...

You’re expecting a baby together and you know breastfeeding is good for your baby.

Most expectant parents say they will choose breastfeeding if they can, but how do they make it as natural and easy as hoped?

Will it fit their busy lifestyle, business or work schedule ?

Thankfully an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can give specialist breastfeeding support throughout your breastfeeding journey, from before birth onto newborn days, through to return to work

Sue Barford is the owner of Red Gate Bowen and Breastfeeding Clinic, located in Ravensbourne, just north of Toowoomba, in Queensland, and has been working in the health field for over 40 years – 35 of these as a passionate source of information and support, helping women to breastfeed

Sue strongly believes in talking to parents about breastfeeding before their baby is born, so that any concerns can be minimised or avoided

Contrary to what some might imagine, breastfeeding can make a busy woman’s life easier, according to Sue, with little to pack, a baby who is much less likely to get the latest daycare bug and has less sickness – and who doesn’t love being encouraged to rest up in between all that busyness

“Breastfeeding reminds us of the importance of selfcare and taking the time to honour ourselves, encouraging us to rest in those early days,” Sue said

While Sue is based in Toowoomba, she works nationally and internationally via online consultations, as well as in-person at her two Toowoomba clinics

Sue would also love to work closely with other professionals interested in collaborating in the same field

Find out more at www.redgateclinic.com.au

Books & writing

Featured author

LightWorkersbreaksfamilycurse

It’s like breaking a family curse.

That’s how Australian debut novelist Anna Sarelas described seeing her first book in print

The “curse” she broke wasn’t scary or damned, but the realisation of generations of love for writing

“I'm a fourth generation wannabe author – from people who were writing in the dark by themselves, between wars and political exiles and military juntas and population swaps,” Anna explains

“My father, my mother's father, my father's grandfather. All of them. There are stories told throughout the family of horrific poverty and horrendous circumstances, but they still wrote throughout”

This puts into perspective the magnitude of the achievement represented by Anna’s newly published upper middle grade and young adult fantasy novel, LightWorkers: The Genie, the Hero and the Siren (Hawkeye Publishing, RRP $2795)

“I don't know if I've started something, but I know I've stopped something At one stage it almost felt like a curse, but this is just what we do We have a burning story inside of us”

Her debut novel has attracted high praise from the likes of bestselling author, Jaclyn Moriarty, who played a major role in bringing the novel to life

Seeing her story in print brought some sense of celebration for Anna, but also of relief

"It almost felt like a sense of peace. Like, okay, all is well We did what we had to do”

“I have slayed so many demons inside ”

The analogy between writing a book and giving birth was true for Anna, who developed her story between full-time work and mothering

“I guess it was baby #2 in 2015, or maybe baby #3 I would churn out 10,000 words each month, with my belly getting bigger. And along the way there was new jobs, and enterprise agreements to negotiate

“It was always a dream, but then other dreams came true, and it became a dream on the side”

Anna’s heritage and strong family connections inspired her story telling, with much of LightWorkers set in and around Sydney

“We had a coffee shop in Surry Hills, which ended up being the shop featured in the book” she said

While aimed at 12 to 14 year old readers, LightWorkers doesn’t shy away from adult themes of conflict and finding yourself facing things that feel so much bigger than you That, says Anna, is a true reflection of life

“For me, especially working in corporate environments, to shy away from conflict, that is a statement in itself You just can’t ignore the difficult things in your environment”

Set in modern-day Sydney, the book weaves the story of different ‘tribes’ of LightWorkers, hiding among us, in plain sight.

With LightWorkers now available for pre-order and hitting the shelves of independent bookstores in June, Anna is looking forward to hearing reviews and building a community of readers through her website

And what do her children think of the book – apart from absolute pride in her achievement?

“My eldest finished reading it three months ago. And her reaction was: ‘When’s the next one?’”

Read more about Anna’s debut novel, LightWorkers, on page 55 or visit www.light-workers.com.au

YourStoryMatters High Impact Book Writing

sigriddekaste@gmailcom wwwstickybeakmarketingcom

Imagine,youmayhavefoundatotallynewwayof savingtime,leadingyourteamwithlovetobemore productiveorbuildingexpansivenetworkswhere thesuccesshappensbysupportingeachother Everywomanhasamultitudeofexperiences,so worthsharing

Yousee,womenoftenbuildbusinessesoutof desperationandsocreatingnew,uniquevisions,a dreamthatsetsthemapartandyet,thatcanget overlookedbyherselfandthosearoundher. Writingabookallowsyoutosharethatvisionwitha broaderaudience

Itallowsyoutostandupandstandoutinthecrowd, beseenandcalledupontosharemoreaboutyour businessandlife,ininterviews,articles,themedia, becauseofthebookthatyouwrote Loadsofbusinesswomenhaveamissionthatgoes beyondprofits

It'saboutmakingadifference,contributingtoa cause,orimprovingthelivesofothers

Let’shearmoreofthosestories,raiseyourvoicewith abooktoyourname,because… YOURSTORYMATTERS

TodayIgiveyouthreecompellingreasonswhyevery womaninbusinessshouldconsiderwritingabook:

1.AmplifyYourVision

Yourbusinessisbuiltonauniquevision,adream thatsetsyouapart

Writingabookallowsyoutosharethatvisionwitha broaderaudience

Whetheryouwanttocreatealastinglegacy,spark positivechange,orinspireotherswithyourvision,a bookcanhelpyoureachaglobalaudience. Byputtingyourideasintowords,youcanamplify yourvisionandmakeameaningfulimpactonthe world

2.ShareYourMission

Everybusinesswomanhasamissionthatgoes beyondprofits It'softenaboutmakingadifference, contributingtoacause,orimprovingthelivesof others

Yourmissionisapowerfulforce,andabookisthe perfectplatformtoshareit

Whenyouwriteaboutyourmissionandthevalues thatdriveyourbusiness,youinspireotherstojoin yourcauseandbecomepartofsomethingbigger Yourbookcanbeacatalystforchangeandasource ofinspirationforthosewhoshareyourmission

3.ShowcaseYourExpertise

Asawomaninbusiness,yourexpertiseisavaluable assettopromoteyouandyourbusiness Whether you'reaseasonedentrepreneur,askilledconsultant, oraspecialistinyourfield,yourknowledgeisworth sharing

Writingabookallowsyoutoshowcaseyour expertise,positioningyouasanauthorityinyour industry

It'sanopportunitytoprovidesolutions,insights,and guidancetothosewhocanbenefitfromyour experience Bysharingyourexpertise,younotonly elevateyourpersonalbrandbutalsocontributeto thegrowthandsuccessofyourpeersand colleagues

Onethingthatholdssomanywomenbackfrom actuallygettingstartedwritingtheirbookisthe ‘excuse’ofnothavingtime

NOMORE!

Yourvision,mission,andexpertisedeservetobe shared,andabookistheperfectmediumtomakeit happen

Ifyou’redreamingofwritingabook,NOWisthe timetotakethatstep,writeyourbook,andletyour storybeabeaconofinspirationandtransformation forothers.

Withinthetransformativetwo-houronline Mastermindsession,you’llhavetheunique opportunityto‘pitch’yourbookidea,receiving invaluablefeedback,guidanceanddirectiononhow tomakeyourdreamofwritingareality

Yourstorymatters,andtheworldiswaitingto hearit–findouthowtojointhenextMastermind here.

Business books CareerUnstuck

How to Play to Your Strengths to Find Freedom and Purpose in Your Work Again

Author Charlotte Blair

Are you at a career crossroad and looking for more?

After a turbulent few years we’re now in the midst of a revolution of people seeking more purpose in their work Given we spend over 80,000 hours of our life at work, it’s time to follow your passion and reach your full potential But where do you start?

In the new book, Career Unstuck, author Charlotte Blair draws upon decades of experience as a renowned ‘coaches coach’, as well as her own personal experience, to outline a clear path to career fulfilment. Whatever stage of your working life you’re at, this practical, research-driven guide helps readers:

Identify what’s keeping you stuck in your career

Evaluate your mindset and beliefs

Reimagine what work and life could be

Discover and play to your strengths to find work you love

Recruit a cheer squad to help you get there

Accessibly written and filled with examples and exercises, Career Unstuck empowers readers with the tools needed to break free from professional stagnation and unlock your true potential. If you want more and are ready to take the next step, this book is an essential read to help get you there

“Given we spend over 80,000 hours of our life at work, it’s time to follow your passion and reach your full potential ”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Known as the coaches coach, Charlotte Blair is someone who believes in living each day to the fullest, aiming for a ten out of ten type of day, every day As an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and one of Australia’s most experienced Gallup Accredited Strengths Coaches, she loves helping people find their passion and purpose, and play to their strengths As the founder of The Strengths Partners Charlotte works with individuals, teams and organisations across the world to help them discover and use their strengths to meet their goals She is dedicated to helping people get career unstuck and love work again, like she did herself ■

Business books

Deliveringexcellence

in the digital age

Author Jacquie Scammell

With the ongoing disruption from AI and automation, it’s easy to assume that machines will replace humans in almost every field. Service industries are rushing to digitise for efficiency, yet they’re compromising what once set them apart: the act of service by a human But what if, rather from making humans obsolete, the digital era brings opportunities for a more dynamic form of service than we’ve ever seen?

In the new book, The Future of Service is 5D: Why Humans Serve Best in the Digital Era (Publish Central $2999) customer service expert Jaquie Scammell unpacks a best-practice guide to what good service means in an increasingly digital and interconnected world

An eminent voice for service leadership and customer service mastery, Jaquie has tackled the hard question of what the service needs to look like in the digital age She argues that 5D service is a new paradigm that brings the quintessential human qualities of service back into the limelight By integrating 5 dimensions - physical, cognitive, emotional, social and spiritual - into a human service approach, Jaquie equips readers with a new service framework that leverages the strengths of both humans and technology to thrive in the digital era

Filled with actionable tools and examples, The Future of Service is 5D is a must-read for every aspiring and current service leader looking to reclaim the human aspect of service

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jaquie Scammell is Australia’s leading expert in Customer Service, a sought-out speaker, author, Founder and CEO of ServiceQ, helping organisations reimagine the future of service through mindsets and behaviours Her work is based not just on theory but also 35 years of customer service experience translated to practical tools for individuals to take and apply She is the author of Service Mindsets and multi award-winning Service Habits 2nd Edition, and a regular blogger and media commentator ■

The Future of Service is 5D RRP $29.99

Watch Jacqui Scammell’s interview by Sigrid de Kaste on the WNA Book Lounge!

Great reads

LightWorkers

the Genie, the Hero and the Siren

LightWorkers live among us, tasked with keeping Earth from falling into darkness

Written for upper middle and teen readers, but equally enjoyable for all, this fantasy coming-of-age story brings together a collection of young people with extraordinary gifts

Alex is a Genie who struggles with his gift for granting wishes Jason is a Hero who loves flexing his muscles and Serena is not your average Siren, she’s a hacker on a mission

When Alex’s parents leave to visit the Home Star, a world-ending vision plagues his mind: the portals are closing! But why now? Who would want to cripple their connection with off-world? And why won’t the Council listen to them?

Friendships are tested and doubts soar as Alex, Jason and Serena try to stop the portal from closing and somehow keep attending school

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anna Sarelas writes upper middle grade and young adult fantasy that Jaclyn Moriarty describes as ‘Delightfully original, twisty-turny, and thought-provoking ’

Anna leads a double life By day, she has a serious role managing complex workplace scenarios By night, Anna writes about LightWorkers and kids doing cool things like saving the world and fighting to be heard

Living in Sydney Australia, and close to great cafes, bushwalk trails and in an area with thousands of bats that come out at night, Anna tries hard to not mix her days and nights, because then that would be a little too hard to explain

If Anna is not writing, she is chasing laughter –with friends, shows, or wherever laughter is to be found Oh, and beauty, she can be found chasing beauty! Crunchy leaves, white sand, incredible clothes, fashion parades, and the eyes of people she loves

Anna has a Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing LightWorkers is her debut novel

Order online from Hawkeye Publishing, or good bookstores

RRP $27.95 www.light-workers.com.au

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