PM Transcripts

I LLx I k
7 PRIME MINISTER
STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER* THE HON P J KEATING, MP
REVIEW OF GOVERNMENT POLICY ADVICE MECHANISMS
ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN
Today I have asked Senator the Hon Rosemary Crowley, Minister Assisting me on the
Status of Women, to chair a review of the Government's policy advice mechanisms on
thc status of women.
Thic Government is proud of its successful record of reform and innovation in this
important policy arca, and wants to ensure that its policy advice mechanisms remain
appropriate, effective and responsive to the changing needs and interests of women. In
particular the Government will review the functions of the Office of the Status of
Women and the mechanisms for consulting and communicating with women in the
community to ensure that women's interests are well rcpresented to govermecnt and
that the Government's policy priorities are implemcnted effectively.
I have asked Senator Crowlcy to advise on the functions and prioriticsof the Office of
the Status of Women. Those priorities will include -monitoring the implementation of
the Government's policies for women announced during thc election campaign,
especially the new child-care policy. As well the Government will need continuing
policy development work in the key areas affecting women economics, health,
employment, education and justice ( including preventing violence against women).
T'he new functions will include developing a research facility able to identify longer
termi policy issues of relevance to women.
In preparing the report, there will be consultation with women's and other intcrcsted
organisations as well as relevant Ministers, government departments and members of
Parliament. The review is expected to take about three months.
CANBERRA 27 MAY 1993