Aligned with our Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, the event created an important forum for business leaders, apprentices, graduates and clients to celebrate progress, exchange perspectives, and explore new ways to empower and elevate women in the workplace.

The gathering also reflected the broader momentum across the sector to create more inclusive, future-ready organisations that champion equitable career pathways.

Led by A.G. Coombs Group Managing Director, Russell Telford, the morning encouraged thoughtful reflection on leadership, representation and the collective responsibility we all share in building high performing, inclusive cultures.

Inspiring Conversations and Shared Perspectives

The event guided attendees through a series of meaningful conversations and personal reflections that highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing women in leadership today.

Softball Australia CEO, Sarah Loh, was the keynote speaker and shared her remarkable journey from Asian migrant beginnings to becoming a respected leader in Australian sport. Reflecting on key milestones — including leading the inaugural AFLW Masters team, becoming Victorian State Coach, and her appointment as CEO of an Olympic National Sporting Organisation — Sarah offered powerful insights into resilience, representation and purpose-driven leadership.

Panel Discussion

Moderated by award winning sports journalist, Tiffany Cherry, the ‘Advancement of Women’ panel featured:

• Jennifer Hunt, Commissioner, Fair Work Commission
• Anne McKinnon, Portfolio Asset Manager, Cromwell Property Group
• Jodi Whelan, Executive Manager – Customer Engagement, A.G. Coombs
• Sarah Loh, CEO, Softball Australia.

The panel explored leadership resilience, the evolving workplace landscape, and practical strategies for strengthening cultures where women can thrive, lead with confidence and build sustainable careers. Their discussion emphasised the value of shared learning, visible role models, and organisational environments that actively support diversity and inclusion.

Showcasing Emerging Talent

The event also highlighted some next generation professionals from A.G. Coombs (QLD) featuring interviews with Lauren Campbell, Service Technician and Taylor Burdett, Graduate Engineer.

Their stories highlighted the importance of mentorship, structured development pathways and early career opportunities that enable women to build long-term, meaningful careers across all areas of the building services industry.

Continuing the Conversation

Events like this reaffirm A.G. Coombs’ commitment to advancing representation, equity, and opportunity across all levels of our business and the wider building services industry.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Advancement of Women Leadership Academy event in Brisbane. Your engagement and support play an important role in advancing meaningful progress and strengthening opportunities for all.