The NSW Teachers Federation Women's Program was established in 1975 when the Federation received a grant from the Whitlam Government as part of its commitment to women in the United Nations International Year of Women. The Federation's first Women's Officer was Gail Shelston and the program was called "Women's Activities Program". The program was established as an affirmative action program designed to encourage and support women to become active in the Federation and to counter sexism in education across the board. At the 1976 Annual Conference a decision was made to continue the Women's program with a full-time coordinator, whether or not the Federation was able to obtain further Federal Government funding.
The Federation Women's Program has come a long way in promoting Women's activism within the Federation and broader union movement since its inception.
As part of the Women's Program the Federation holds an annual Women's Conference, conducts Trade Union Training specifically for women, runs the Anna Stewart Program and has a full time coordinator.
| Women's Coordinator | Information |
| Leeanda Smith Phone: 1300 654 369 or (02) 9217 2146 Fax: (02) 9217 2470 Email: mail@nswtf.org.au Postal: Locked Bag 3010, Darlinghurst, NSW 1300 |
Extra resources
Women's Newsletter
| 2020 | 2019 | 2018 |
| Semester One | Semester One | Semester One |
| Semester Two | Semester Two | Semester Two |
Trade Union Training for women
Following the advice of relevant health authorities around conferences and events in light of the COVID-19 virus, some courses will not proceed at this time. While we are unable to run face-to-face training the Trade Union Training Team have developed a suite of webinars. Please contact Trade Union Training at tut@nswtf.org.au for further information.
Federation resources
- Hot Topics – Women
- How to fill in a Temporary Engagement Form
- L5 Maternity, adoption and parental leave
- TR9 Dealing with sexual harassment
- International Women's Day Poster
Professional Support – (02) 9217 2100, 1300 654 369
News from other agencies
Links of interest
Support services
- Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia
- NSW Rape Crisis is the 24/7 telephone and online crisis counselling service for anyone in NSW
- 1800Respect National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service - https://www.1800respect.org.au
If you, or a colleague, are experiencing homophobia, discrimination or harassment contact your local Organiser for advice or call our Professional Support Team on 1300 654 367.
