About

Established in 2014, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute’s Women in Defence and Security Network (WDSN) is an important initiative which supports women who work in, or have an interest in working in, defence, national security and international affairs. The WDSN provides informal and formal opportunities for women to develop networks in the fields of defence, foreign policy and national security.

Network aims

The Network has two main goals: to support women, and all interested individuals, in building their networks across the sector, as well as developing their skills and confidence; and to support and retain a diverse pipeline of talent across the national security and foreign affairs community.

How do we do this?

The Network frequently hosts events including public panels, speed mentoring, networking events, roundtables and workshops for professionals and students. The Network is grateful to draw on the expertise of senior experts across the community, who support WDSN events as speakers, mentors, participants, sharing their professional and personal experiences with participants, and tips on navigating a career on national security.

As well as supporting women’s careers and leadership across the sector, the WDSN is designed to promote and facilitate insightful discussions from a gender perspective on defence, national security and foreign policy issues, including on the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

Through these initiatives, the Network has been able to develop a broad scope of talented individuals who are looking to play an influential part in Australia’s strategic conversation, as well as develop career and leadership pathways in defence, security, and international relations.

Interested in getting involved?

The WDSN welcomes and supports the active participation of all who are interested in the Network, regardless of gender or background, and looks to amplify the voices of those that have been previously marginalised in defence and security.  

The Network is suited to people with all levels of experience, with attendees including university students, APS staff (all levels, including SES), industry representatives and academics, as well as think tankers. 

To stay up to up to date on what’s coming up, follow @ASPI_WDSN on X and Women in Defence & Security Network on Facebook. You can also join our mailing list here.