Battle For A.c.w.a. Payment Won (Press, 23 December 1982)

The Advisory Committee on Women's Affairs (A.C.W.A.) has announced a significant development regarding its status and financial recognition. Members of the committee, previously limited to expenses-only payments, are now entitled to a sitting fee of $75 per day for attending meetings. Committee chairman, Miss Colleen Dewe, highlighted that this represents a crucial step towards equal recognition with other government bodies and against the prevailing notion that women should provide services without financial compensation. However, she noted that further financial battles remain, particularly around securing better allocations for travel expenses to enable members to attend important meetings without financial strain. Additionally, Dewe expressed concern over the underfunded Project Fund, which has remained at $25,000 since its establishment in 1978, an amount now deemed insufficient in light of inflation and increasing requests for funding. She argued that enhanced financial resources would facilitate more regular interactions with women's groups across the country. Following the closure of the National Advisory Committee on Women and Education (N.A.C.W.E.) earlier in 1982, Judith Aitken has been appointed to A.C.W.A., while others like Betty Biddles and Jenny Wilson have been reappointed for an extended term. The secretariat has also seen changes in staffing, with Chris Hobcraft taking over as senior executive officer, and additional temporary support to address various organisational tasks. In another development, the Human Rights Commission received three complaints from men concerning exclusion from women's events, including the Feminist Arts Festival and screenings of "Scream from Silence." The commission concluded that the organisers did not infringe upon sections of the Human Rights Commission Act of 1977, clarifying that not all distinctions based on race, sex, or religion constitute unlawful discrimination. The musical contribution of New Zealand women has surfaced with the release of "Out of the Corners," the first album featuring only female musicians, while the Topp Twins have also released a new record. Both albums are available for purchase, promoting women in music. For those seeking outdoor activities, Women Walk has created a holiday programme with excursions for women, offering guided walks in scenic locations throughout January 1983. In acknowledgments, Eva Findlay has been appointed to a significant role in the Asian Christian Churchwomen’s Assembly, and Nancy Waters has received an appointment related to the World Day of Prayer. Overall, A.C.W.A.'s recent achievements and ongoing initiatives reflect a progressive push towards improving the status of women in New Zealand, garnering financial and social recognition while addressing historical inequalities. The next update for the "Making It Happen" column is set for 16 January 1983, inviting contributions for future publications.

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