Better representation needed

The first 100 days of the new PM present a truly promising record with the exception of the composition of the Australia 2020 Summit Committee.

While women's under-representation is very disappointing the lack of even one NESB representative is equally "dead wrong"!

First and second generation NESB migrants comprise probably well over 35% of the population now - and growing rapidly.

Yet, the Committee's composition has a predominantly WAAM (White Anglo Australian and Male) character.

Research I did in 1996 provided clear evidence that NESB I and II were then severely underrepresented in senior decision-making roles e.g. in parliaments, public services, the judiciary, corporate boards, universities, and the police forces.

Well, the deed is done.

Hopefully the imbalance can be corrected still with the 1000 now to be selected for the Summit but rumours have it that many have already been co-opted without even an application.

Given the WAAM composition of the Steering Committee, a very conscious effort should be made to ensure proper gender and multicultural representation.

Klaas Woldring Pearl Beach