Helping women get back to work
About Jobs Academy
Jobs Academy is a FW initiative that was established in 2021 thanks to government support.
Jobs Academy was conceived during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw women reducing their hours of work or stop working altogether at a faster rate than men.
Recognising that the pandemic was prompting economic and workforce changes that threatened women’s equal participation in work, FW launched Jobs Academy.
Since then, Jobs Academy has evolved to support employers who want to boost the number of women in their workforce or are facing serious labour shortages. The program contributes positively to Australia’s productivity and is helping reduce the gender employment gap. Its mission remains to support women who face barriers to work, find meaningful, secure and flexible jobs.
Applications for our Jobs Academy: Parents intake are now open!
Applications are now open for our next intake, Jobs Academy Parents, commencing October 2026. This program equips women and parents of children under 18 with the knowledge and connections to return to work and thrive.
If you aren't eligible for this cohort, please fill out the first part of the application form to register your interest. We'll contact you when our 2027 applications open.
What's included in the program?
Your Dashboard
Access important announcements, a calendar of upcoming events and a digital library of written, video and podcast resources, to support your return-to-work journey.
A library of courses
A bank of self-guided courses that will help you articulate your skills and strengths, update or create a resume, navigate an evolving job market, and much more.
Coaching and mentoring
Delivered through group coaching webinars, small group workshops and one-on-one sessions hosted by experienced professionals who will help you boost your confidence and clarity.
Jobs & Skills Fairs
Webinars that connect you with employers, training organisations and pathway programs in a live online environment.
Community
Our vibrant and supportive Facebook Community, plus a virtual ticket to the annual FW Leadership Summit, held each year in March.
Our vision
That every Australian woman who wants paid work can be securely employed in a supportive and flexible environment, regardless of her personal circumstances or background.
Hear from our participants
“Being made redundant last year affected me beyond expectation: right to my core. Jobs Academy, the Community Connect Sessions and the small group mentoring sessions with incredible participants and mentors made me appreciate I wasn’t alone, and I have more to contribute to the world in the future.”
“The mentoring sessions, employer webinars and all the training webinars have been the most relevant and useful that I have ever had access to.”
“Connecting with amazing people and believing in myself in finding the next dream job is something I couldn't have done without Jobs Academy.”
“Hearing from and connecting with other women experiencing the same challenges has boosted my confidence. I feel I'm less alone in this journey of trying to build and grow a professional career and while juggling caring responsibilities.”
Working hand-in-hand with industry
We partner with employers and recruitment agencies that are committed to creating supportive environments and helping women get back to work after a career break.
Proven results
The Jobs Academy pilot program has demonstrated both overwhelming demand and success.
Reported increased confidence
Started the job search
Secured a job and/or commenced study
Helen McCabe
Founder and Managing Director
Jamila Rizvi
Deputy Managing Director
About FW
Who we are
FW is a professional development and job-readiness training organisation that is committed to achieving gender equality in Australian workplaces.
We achieve this by supporting women to reach their potential and training the men they work with to be advocates for equality.
We also guide employers to build fairer workplaces and work with them to connect women with job opportunities.
Our community
Our Locations
Adelaide | Auckland | Canberra | Central Coast NSW | Central Victoria | Geelong | Melbourne | Mid-North Coast NSW | South Coast NSW | Southern Tablelands | Sunshine Coast | Sydney
Kaurna | Tāmaki Makaurau | Ngunnawal and Ngambri | Darkinyung | Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung | Wadawurrung | Naarm | Gumbaynggirr | Yuin | Ngunnawal and Ngambri | Kabi Kabi and Jinibara | Gadigal
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