Quiet achiever is not usually a label worn by political leaders. Yet Wayne Goss and his wife Roisin were quiet achievers in their political and public partnership. Wayne didn’t get on a soap box and shout about the rights of women; instead he systematically and comprehensively set about enhancing the economic and social status of Queensland women.
We were well behind other States and the Commonwealth in law and policy reform for women, but the Goss Government was determined to fix that.
With Wayne Goss at the helm, very capable women were appointed in policy and leadership roles to lead the charge for women. Under his leadership the Women’s Policy Unit, Women’s Health Unit, Women’s Infolink and a Gender Equity Unit in Education were established. Statewide policies on the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Towards Economic Equality for Women were launched in 1992/93.
A statewide policy and network of sexual assault and women’s health centres were established around the State. An Equal Opportunity and Public Employment Act was introduced to end discrimination in employment in Queensland and a register of women was established to facilitate the appointment of women to government boards.
Roisin Goss paved a path as a public role model and supporter of organisations seeking to end violence against women and improve the quality of life and education for children. I was working with a great team at the Domestic Violence Resource Centre and Roisin became our Patron. As a small non-government organisation seeking change on a complex and controversial issue, Roisin’s support enhanced our credibility and lifted our spirits.
These were great times and these were major breakthroughs for women. The health, safety and economic needs of women were being elevated and acted upon. Women in Queensland had never received this kind of attention – that was, until the Goss Government rode into town.
Today we said farewell to Wayne at his memorial service. Many of us were saying thank you to Wayne for valuing women and thank you to Roisin for her role in this formidable partnership, and in advancing the status of women.