8th March 2024 / Prue Fletcher: IWD 2024 | ‘Inspire Inclusion’

The theme for International Women's Day 2024, "Inspire Inclusion", will highlight the importance of creating an inclusive environment where women can thrive. This includes breaking down barriers and stereotypes that limit opportunities for women and promoting diverse perspectives and voices in decision-making processes.

When considering the theme of this year, it is important to acknowledge the complex historical journey of women in property.

Until the Married Women's Property Act (UK) (1870) and its later manifestation in 1882, married women had no legal right to own or control property.

The trajectory of women in the workforce parallels their experience in property ownership, reflecting broader themes of empowerment, autonomy, and equality. Just as the early 20th century marked the beginning of legal property ownership for women, it also signaled the gradual integration of women into the workforce. Initially limited to certain roles and facing significant wage disparities, women have tirelessly fought for their place in every sector. This struggle mirrors their battle for property rights—both endeavors aimed at dismantling longstanding societal norms that confined their economic independence and personal freedoms. Today, as women continue to break glass ceilings in the corporate world, they also represent a growing demographic of homeowners and real estate investors, symbolising not just financial independence but also the reshaping of societal values towards gender equality.

In 1901, the Commonwealth of Australia was established and this brought new laws that allowed women to legally own property. This was a significant achievement for women's property rights in our country. Interestingly, this was also the year Fletchers was founded. Throughout our 105 year history, we have always recognised and valued the contributions of women in property. From our early days, having had strong female leaders who have driven our growth and success, many of them having careers spanning over 30 years. Today, we continue to celebrate the accomplishments of women in the industry and work towards creating a more inclusive environment.

Spring Chen, Director & Fletchers current No.1 Property Consultant, has cemented her name as one of the leading agents in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne. A remarkable leader within our team, Spring shares a particularly inspiring story. While navigating the demanding world of real estate, she balances motherhood and entrepreneurship with grace and determination. She recalls early mornings and late nights, carving out time for client meetings between school drop-offs and family dinners. Spring's resilience and innovative approach to time management not only led to her success in securing the top accolades within the Fletchers Group for 2023, but also cemented her Directorship. 'I wouldn't have been able to achieve this success for my clients without the flexibility & support of my Fletchers family. My hope is that my daughters, as well as the talented women I work with, see what my team & I are achieving and feel supported in chasing their professional goals too!' Her perseverance and work-life balance serve as a shining example within our group and beyond.

The journey of women in property has been a long and challenging one, but with each passing year, we see more progress towards an inclusive environment where women can thrive. At Fletchers, we are proud to have been part of this journey and are committed to providing both established and emerging female leaders a platform to succeed.