At the 2025 AREEA Industry Awards Gala Dinner in Perth, Compass Group Australia’s Women in Food program proudly took centre stage, jointly receiving the Diversity & Inclusion Award with Newmont. This honour celebrates the program’s unwavering commitment to building more inclusive and equitable workplaces across the Offshore & Remote sector, while providing tailored development, mentoring and clear career pathways for our women Culinarians.
“Winning this award highlights the importance of recognising and supporting women in trades,” says Erin English O’Connell, Social Inclusion and Engagement Manager.
“Hospitality is often overlooked, yet it plays a vital role in creating productive, safe, and enjoyable work and learning environments. I’m incredibly proud of our Women in Food community for their passion and dedication in shining a light on this space!”
Women Supporting Women
The initiative was born from a clear need, and in support of one of Compass Group Australia’s core diversity pillars. Although they make up a significant portion of the culinary workforce, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles and often face barriers to advancement. Through this ambassador-led, community-driven program, Women in Food aims to change that, offering support, development opportunities and a safe, inclusive space to thrive. Its mission is to promote gender equality and empower women at every level of the food industry.
Since its launch in January 2024, the program has grown steadily. What began with a focus on culinary roles now includes women from all areas of the business, with more than 100 active members, five ambassadors, and two Co-Chairs.
“As Co-Chair, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful the Women in Food network is,” says Air Dovey, National Culinary Lead.
“It creates a supportive space where women across all areas of our business, Chefs, Utilities, Dining Room Attendants, Support Office team members and Managers, can overcome challenges and grow both personally and professionally. By amplifying their voices and stories, we’re not only inspiring the next generation of female culinary professionals but also shaping a more inclusive industry. I truly value the impact of women’s networks in driving change and lifting each other up.”
Support Beyond Food Service
The impact of Women in Food goes far beyond food service. Built around several key pillars, the program includes mentoring workshops that empower female ambassadors to lead and inspire across different sectors and sites. Tailored development programs offer female Chefs, within Compass Group, opportunities for both professional and personal growth, focusing on areas such as self-reflection, conflict resolution, self-promotion, time management and achieving a healthy work-life balance. In addition to career development, the program also supports women’s health through regular events, check-ins and targeted resources on topics such as menopause, breast cancer and contraceptive options.
Congratulations to our Women in Food Co-Chairs, Air Dovey and Adele Hug, and to our ambassadors, Renee Allen, Karina Kidd, Melissa Reynolds, Lauren Sime, and Lisa Uluivuya, for this historic win. Thank you for all you do to champion inclusion in the workplace.
Read more about how one of our Women in Food is providing care and connection, one meal at a time.
