Melbourne, 16June 2025 — quityawards.com
As gender equity continues to be a pressing workplace and societal issue, the Gender Equity Awards return in 2025 with a judging panel that reflects the strength, expertise, and diversity needed to lead change.
These judges will evaluate nominations across a wide spectrum—from large corporates to grassroots initiatives—with the goal of identifying Australia's best practices in workplace inclusion.
2025 Judging Panel:
- Joanne Plummer, expert in board governance and strategic leadership
- Bianca Hartge-Hazelman, Financy founder and gender pay gap commentator
- Karen Milward, Indigenous policy and leadership expert
- Jo Kowalczyk, women's superannuation leader
- Emma Walsh, workplace flexibility advocate
- Marnie Baker, respected former CEO in the banking sector
- Amie Larter, media and retail innovation leader
- Penelope Cottrill, leadership expert at Bendelta
- Jay Westbury, CEO of the Franchise Council of Australia
- Scott Brown, business growth and governance leader
- Peter White, financial services industry voice
- Jeremy Crawford, regional business advocate
- Daniel Poynton, inclusive sport and wellbeing leader
- Alan Schauder, creative executive and brand strategist
- Neil Plummer, sustainability-focused water utility director
Each brings a unique lens to the judging process, from cultural inclusion and gender pay equity to regional innovation and governance best practice.
"This panel ensures the Awards reflect real-world progress," said Lisa Sweeney, Founder of Business in Heels and the Gender Equity Awards. "It's not just about who's talking about gender equity—but who's living it, measuring it, and scaling it."
When asked why the judges were willing to support this is what was said:-
Marnie Baker, "I said yes to being a judge for the Gender Equity Awards because I believe in recognising those who are driving real, lasting change. Equity needs champions – and these awards shine a light on them."
Jay Westbury said, "As a father of two daughters one still in high school, I want to ensure I am helping wherever I can to make gender who we are and not the reason how we might be chosen or judged."
Jeremy Crawford, "I said yes because these awards spotlight real change. Celebrating gender equity leaders and initiatives inspires others and accelerates progress for everyone."
In addition to a rigorous judging the results are audited by KPMG to ensure the process is followed and that no one has a conflict of interest.
When asked why they accepted the chance to judge the Awards, Jeremy Crawford, CEO Geelong Chamber of Commerce admits, "I said yes because these awards spotlight real change. Celebrating gender equity leaders and initiatives inspires others and accelerates progress for everyone."
Nominations close 31st July. Finalists announced end September. The Gala Awards Night takes place on 19th November at Crown Casino in Melbourne.
👉 More info and nomination forms: www.genderequityawards.com
Key Facts:
Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre report
With an ongoing gender pay gap of 21.8% according to the latest WGEA figures. For every $1 on average a man makes, women earn 78c. Over the course of a year, that difference adds up to $28,425.
About us:
About Business in Heels International.
The Gender Equity Awards honour individuals, organisations, and initiatives that are leading the charge toward more equitable and inclusive workplaces. Now in our third year, these awards shine a spotlight on best practices, celebrate meaningful progress, and inspire action to drive systemic change. By showcasing trailblazers and their impactful strategies, we aim to encourage others to follow their lead, fostering workplaces where diversity thrives and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
The company has a vision to create an unlimited future for women. It is known for its work in providing mentoring support across Australia with Mentor Mornings and Leadership Summits to inspire women into senior roles in male-dominated industries and for Recalibrate - Gender Equity Awards for Australia. Today it connects over 200,000.
