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Challenging ageism in the job market 

The Older Women’s Network
1988 - OWN Project goes to Canberra @OWN

When Claire, 53, moved from Queensland to Sydney to escape domestic violence, she retrained in events management, only to have the pandemic shut down her new career.

When Claire, 53, moved from Queensland to Sydney to escape domestic violence, she retrained in events management, only to have the pandemic shut down her new career. After years of unstable work, she joined the Older Women’s Employment Program. Over several months, the Older Women’s Employment Program team supported her with job applications, interview coaching and confidence-building. When a legal firm offered her a six month contract, the team continued to mentor her as she settled into the role. By the end of the contract, Claire’s performance had earned her a permanent position. “I’ve been supported with genuine care, empathy and respect,” she says.

This opportunity has completely changed my life.”

Lily, 54, came to the program after a serious car accident left her unable to work and close to homelessness. With tailored guidance and encouragement from the Pathways team, she quickly secured new employment and stabilised her housing. “I could hardly believe how my life had turned around,” she later said. “I never imagined being in such a positive position at this stage of my life.”

Together, stories like Claire’s and Lily’s show how targeted support can break down systemic barriers for older women, helping them regain security, purpose and pride in their working lives.

The Older Women’s Network works to ensure dignity, security and opportunity for women as they age. Through its Older Women’s Employment Program, OWN provides tailored, one on one support for women over 50 seeking to re-enter the workforce. The program also partners with employers to challenge ageism and open pathways to stable, meaningful work.

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