Women in Media Conference 2025 Announces Heavyweight Panel on DEI, Quotas and Backlash
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
Women in Media Australia has unveiled a headline session for its 2025 National Conference that tackles one of the most contested issues in media and politics: the future of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
‘DEI, Quotas and Backlash’ will bring together some of the country’s most influential voices for a timely and dynamic conversation about the cultural shifts and political pressures shaping DEI in Australia. It is taking place on Friday, 15 August at ICC Sydney, as part of the annual Women in Media National Conference.
Panellists include:
Senator the Hon. Katy Gallagher – Federal Minister for Finance, Women, the Public Service and Government Services
Paula Kruger – CEO, Media Diversity Australia
Charlotte Mortlock – Founder and Executive Director, Hilma’s Network
The session will be moderated by Tanya Hosch, a highly respected leader in gender equity and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander policy, the first Indigenous person and second woman to join the AFL’s Executive ranks, and 2021 South Australian of the Year.
From the corridors of Parliament to national newsrooms, DEI policy is under growing scrutiny. Is the U.S.-led backlash against DEI gaining ground here? Are quotas and workforce targets necessary, or divisive? This session will unpack the resistance, reforms and road ahead for equitable representation in Australia.
Kym Middleton, General Manager of Women in Media Australia, said the session is expected to ignite robust and necessary conversation.
“DEI has become one of the most contested ideas in public life – praised, criticised, politicised. Our audience wants to hear from those on the frontline of policy and culture on how it’s shaping the behind-the-scenes decisions that impact each of us.”
Get you your before EOFY. More speakers announced in the coming weeks.
Katy Gallagher is Australia’s Minister for Finance, Women, the Public Service and Government Services. Entering politics to boost women’s representation, she’s spent over two decades putting gender equality at the centre of policy – from paid parental leave and superannuation reform to women’s safety and health access. A member of Australia’s first gender-equal cabinet, she continues to lead reforms ensuring government delivers for women across the country.
Paula Kruger is CEO of Media Diversity Australia and a media leader with more than 30 years' experience across journalism, radio and executive roles. A former ABC broadcaster and 2SER Managing Director, she has championed diverse storytelling and career pathways in the industry. Drawing on her Australian, Indigenous Fijian and Indian Fijian heritage, Paula brings a deep commitment to inclusion and cultural representation in Australia’s media.
Charlotte Mortlock is a former Sky News journalist and political advisor who founded Hilma’s Network – a national movement encouraging more women to join and shape the Liberal Party. With 12 years in newsrooms from Sydney to New York, she now combines media expertise and political advocacy to drive women’s representation. Charlotte also hosts The Clock podcast, highlighting the many paths women take in their 30s and beyond.
Tanya Hosch has a long and distinguished career spanning advocacy and governance. She has served on many boards and advisory councils overseeing portfolios including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues, gender equity, and inclusion – with the likes of NAB, BHP, AFTRS, UTS, ANU, Circus Oz, Adelaide Fringe, and many more. Tanya was the first Indigenous person and second woman to join the AFL’s Executive ranks, and the Joint Campaign Director of the Recognise movement for constitutional recognition, playing a pivotal role in the Referendum Council’s process that led to the Statement from the Heart. She was named South Australian of the Year in 2021.
