Jane Hume (Victoria, Liberal Party, Minister for Superannuation, Financial Services and the Digital Economy) Share this | Hansard source

The Morrison government understands that the role of government is as an enabler and as a standards setter. That is one reason why we're supporting more women into leadership positions and jobs for the future. We know that 'women in STEM' is not just a tagline. It's a lived reality and a priority in order to create the digital economy of the future. Careers in STEM are in demand and, crucially, are one of the highest-paid sectors of our economy.

Our government is committed to ensuring that there are more talented, educated and ready-to-lead women in the pipeline. We are investing $42.4 million over seven years to support more women with higher-level STEM qualifications. We're also supporting industry led programs, like Skill Finder, to provide flexible microcredentials that are in high demand. Additionally, we're partnering with universities to offer scholarships and identify STEM fields with the highest growth potential to support women into the jobs of the future. These programs build on the successful Women's Leadership and Development Program, where we committed a further $39.8 million. (Time expired)