The state government is committing an extra $1 million towards Women’s Health Victoria’s shEqual campaign to combat sexism, the objectification of women and gender inequality within advertising.
Women Minister Natalie Hutchins announced the funding on Friday, September 16, which will contribute to shEqual’s national framework ‘Seeing is Believing’, which is engaging with the Australian Association of National Advertisers to strengthen its Code of Ethics, delivering gender equity training and a guide to help industry professionals, including those in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges, identify and challenge harmful stereotypes in advertising.
“Advertising is highly visible in our community – and it’s important it reflects the type of society we want to build, so we’re so proud to support this nation-leading work to bring lasting change when it comes to gender equality,” she said.
A Women’s Health Victoria survey of about 600 advertising industry professionals discovered more than 30 per cent of industry staffers hesitate to call out sexist or stereotypical content or portrayals of women in advertising due to fears of negative consequences.
Women’s Health Victoria chief executive Dianne Hill said the shEqual campaign is leading to more diverse and positive depictions of women and girls in advertisements across the state.
“We know we need to create culture change, and we’re excited to continue that work with this investment, to embed lasting change across the industry,” she said.
Details: shequal.com.au
