FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Population Debate Must Include Women
26 February 2002
‘Discussion of the need for an increase in the fertility rate as part of a population debate is pointless unless it includes the broader social responsibilities of caring for and raising children’, said Ms Fiona Jolly, National President of the YWCA of Australia.
Ms Jolly said, ‘From the reporting of the Population Summit you could be forgiven for thinking that this was a debate that only concerned men. The reporting from many media outlets only included male speakers, even when they spoke about increasing the fertility rate.
‘Women in Australia face tough decisions when choosing to have children. The rising costs of childcare, education and the continuing resistance of many employers to family friendly work practices all mean that those who choose to have children will face significant financial hurdles.
‘Any population debate must include recognition of the role that society must play in supporting families. Future meetings of this nature must include representatives from women’s groups to ensure that a broader social perspective is included.’
For an interview please contact:
Ms Fiona Jolly
National President
YWCA of Australia
0411 212 276