Job-readiness support organisation, Fitted for Work, has been awarded a grant of $30,000 from the William Buckland Foundation. The not-for-profit group empowers women and non-binary people experiencing disadvantage by delivering employment services like practical skills, self-esteem and know-how to help them move forward in the workplace.

“Over two-thirds of Australian women are over-represented in casual and part-time roles and are almost twice as likely to be underemployed, making them vulnerable to financial insecurity and unemployment during times of adversity,” said Donna De Zwart, Managing Director of Fitted for Work.

“We’re grateful for this much-needed grant from the William Buckland Foundation, which will deliver 12 months of tailored and holistic services, supporting women to upskill, build confidence and resilience, and prepare to re-enter employment as the economy turns.”

Employment services in the Fitted for Work project are tailored to meet individual needs and can be accessed in a variety of methods including online, via a dedicated service app, self-paced individual and group training webinars, face to face appointments and phone.

The William Buckland Foundation is one of Victoria’s largest philanthropic trusts. Since its establishment in 1964, it has distributed more than $129 million in grants which focus on supporting better housing, health, education and employment outcomes.

“The global pandemic has further affected women’s economic security and we recognise that not-for-profit organisations like Fitted for Work are operating in financially challenging times. We are delighted to support this very capable and important organisation in its work to improve job prospects for women and non-binary community members in need,” said Dr Jane Gilmour OAM, Chair of the William Buckland Foundation.

Equity Trustees is a co-trustee of the William Buckland Foundation, and leading source of philanthropic grants in Australia as manager and trustee of more than 600 charitable trusts.

“Right now, as people return to CBD offices in our major cities, it’s important that those who are experiencing disadvantage have the opportunity and support to start again and create their future,” said Carol Schwartz AO, Chair of Equity Trustees. “Fitted for Work is an incredible organisation doing essential work to support many who have been worst impacted by the pandemic.”

The theme of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2022 is #BreakTheBias towards a world free of bias, stereotypes; that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive; and where women’s equality is universal.

Read an opinion piece in relation to International Women’s Day here.