Celebratory Morning Tea to Commemorate the 10th Year of Dress for Success Celebrating International Women’s Day

Queensland Minister; Federal Assistant Minister; Councillor Howard; Deputy Chair, Mr Sanderson; CEO, Ms Smith; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I at once acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands around Brisbane, and extend respectful greetings to Elders and emerging leaders.

As Governor and Patron of Suited to Success, I am delighted, with Kaye, to be here to celebrate the 10^th year of the Dress for Success programme in Brisbane. It is a great privilege to once again publicly support the valuable work of this inspiring organisation, as it guides and motivates disadvantaged people in their quest to find employment, and improve their lives.

It is appropriate that today’s Dress for Success milestone is being celebrated in unison with International Women’s Day.

These two celebrations both highlight the achievements of women, of all ages and backgrounds, who are realising their dreams and ambitions, and setting examples for others to follow.

Now my very last visit to these impressive premises was on 13 February 2015. Upon my return to Fernberg that day, in accordance with my constitutional remit, I asked Ms Palaszczuk to form government, following her election victory.

In relation to highlighting the achievements of women, there seems, to me, a symmetry between those two events – and it is notable that both leaders of the two major political parties at this year’s State Election, are both women.

The rallying call for a world where every person, but in relation to our celebration today, every woman, has an equal opportunity to fulfill their potential is – if you will excuse my indulgence – in the very fabric of the Dress for Success and Suited to Success ethos.

The deceptively simple action of helping women look and feel their best for a job interview, is connected to a myriad of others – less obvious, but much more powerful.

Women who come through these doors are transformed. This program builds their confidence, and in doing so, generates a renewed sense of worth and optimism that touches all facets of their lives.

Over the past ten years, more than 5,100 Brisbane women received support through the Dress for Success programme – many more through Suited to Success’s other services.

They may each have experienced adversities and challenges, yet their disadvantages do not overshadow hope.

Indeed, one of the most remarkable aspects of your efforts is your focus on positivity.

Words like strength, growth, support, healing, encouragement and empowerment are future-facing – seeking a world of new beginnings.

Admirably, the positive impact you have on individuals has a halo effect on those around them. Families become stronger, and communities more united and compassionate.

Indeed, these are the connections that help our whole State flourish.

On behalf of all Queenslanders, I commend the Board, staff, supporters and volunteers who have all contributed to making the Dress for Success programme – and Suited to Success more broadly – so effective and beneficial in this State.  

Congratulations on a decade of outstanding contribution, as we look forward to celebrating your continuing successes.