Melbourne, 10 June 2025 — The Gender Equity Awards proudly unveil the distinguished judging panel for 2025, comprising some of Australia’s most respected leaders in business, policy, education, and advocacy.
These 15 accomplished individuals bring deep sector knowledge and a shared commitment to creating inclusive, equitable workplaces. Their insights will shape the selection of award recipients across categories such as Inclusive Leadership, SME Impact, Executive Allyship, and Gender-Inclusive Workplaces.
Meet the Judges:
- Joanne Plummer – Board Chair & Governance Specialist, with a focus on strategic transformation and organisational performance
- Bianca Hartge-Hazelman – Founder & CEO, Financy; LinkedIn Top Voice and champion for women’s economic empowerment
- Karen Milward – former Chairperson, Kinaway Chamber of Commerce (Vic); leading voice in Indigenous governance and development
- Jo Kowalczyk – CEO, Women in Super; advocate for women’s financial security and equity in superannuation
- Emma Walsh – Founder, Family Friendly Workplaces; expert in workplace flexibility and parental inclusion policies
- Marnie Baker – Former CEO & MD, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank; recognised for inclusive leadership in the finance sector
- Amie Larter – CEO, Octomedia; media entrepreneur and connector with a focus on retail and innovation
- Penelope Cottrill – Director, Bendelta; behavioural science and leadership strategist with a deep commitment to equity
- Jay Westbury – CEO, Franchise Council of Australia; experienced leader in business advocacy and stakeholder engagement
- Scott Brown – Entrepreneur and Company Director; seasoned in scaling businesses and championing cultural change
- Peter White – Managing Director, Finance Brokers Association of Australia; advocate for transparency in financial services
- Jeremy Crawford – CEO, Geelong Chamber of Commerce; expert in regional business development and community impact
- Daniel Poynton – Executive Officer, GippSport; inclusion advocate driving participation and leadership through sport
- Dr Terrance Fitzimmons – MD Australian Equality Council; a leading authority on gender in the workplace.
“We’re proud to have assembled such a powerhouse panel,” said Lisa Sweeney, Founder of the Gender Equity Awards. “These judges are not only leaders in their fields—they’re also role models in championing equity, impact, and meaningful change.”
In addition to rigorous judging, the results are audited by KPMG to ensure the process is followed and that no one has a conflict of interest.
Nominations are now open and close 31st July 2025. Winners will be celebrated at a Gala Dinner in Melbourne on 19 November 2025.
👉 Learn more and nominate at: 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.
Contact details:
Lisa Sweeney
CEO Business in Heels
Mob 0409441816