One of our team members, Mhairi, had the opportunity to attend this year’s UN Women Australia’s International Women’s Day (IWD) Luncheon. Held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney in Darling Harbour, the event brought together 1,700 attendees to celebrate the achievements of women and discuss the path forward. The theme for the event was #MarchForward, a call to action to continue advancing gender equality and ensuring that every woman and girl reaches her full potential. With UN Women operating in over 100 countries worldwide, the organization remains committed to delivering policies, programs, and standards that uphold women’s rights on a global scale. Powerful Voices, Lasting Impact The luncheon featured an incredible lineup of speakers, each bringing unique insights and personal experiences to the conversation: Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC , Governor-General of Australia, shared her experiences meeting women across Australia who ‘turn promises into progress.’ Her speech was a reminder of the real impact women make in their communities every day. Celeste Barber , the beloved actor, comedian, and author, brought her signature wit and passion to the stage. She emphasized the importance of taking action over just talking about change, stating she is a firm believer in ‘a little less conversation and a little more action’ when it comes to tackling social injustices. She also shared her best business advice: to be 100% unashamedly ‘me.’ Mary Robinson , Former President of Ireland, was another notable speaker. She had recently sat down with Simone Clarke, CEO of UN Women Australia , to discuss the ongoing fight for gender equality and the importance of keeping the momentum going. A Historic Year for Women’s Rights This year’s IWD coincided with two major milestones in the fight for gender equality: 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration , adopted at the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women, which set out a framework for gender equality globally. 50 years since International Women’s Year (1975) , when the United Nations officially recognized March 8th as International Women’s Day . Both anniversaries serve as a powerful reminder of how far we have come—and how much work still lies ahead. Mhairi found the UN Women Australia’s IWD Luncheon to be an inspiring and thought-provoking experience. The event reinforced the idea that real change happens when words turn into action. As we move forward under the banner of #MarchForward , let’s continue to advocate, support, and uplift one another in the pursuit of true gender equality.

Why do organisations use psychometric tests for recruitment? Some employers include assessment testing as part of the selection process to make a better, more informed decision about a candidate. There is a range of questions that an assessment test can help answer such as; can this candidate do the job, will they do the job, and will they fit our team and culture? Well designed, an assessment test can: Help predict future potential, and likely on-the-job performance Confirm a candidate’s ability to handle various job-related activities such as working in a team, leading others, coping with pressure, and adhering to rules Measure job specific skills that are not easily assessed by other methods. How can I prepare for an OPRA psychometric assessment? Being prepared is an important first step to ensure you are ‘in the right head-space’ to complete an assessment. Being prepared means that you know what tests you will complete, and ideally, making sure you feel rested and alert is equally important preparation for an assessment session. Before the Assessments Set aside a time of day to complete the assessments when you know you will be most alert. Ensure that you will be free from distractions for the period that you are completing the assessments. Familiarise yourself with the different types of tests you will complete and practice these under the same conditions as the real assessment situation. Information on the tests you will be taking can be found in your email invitation. If you have special requirements, make sure the assessor understands these well in advance of testing. It may be possible for alternative arrangements to be made. If you have any significant concerns about the assessment, get in contact with your consultant and they will be able to provide you with guidance and information. After the Assessments If you are completing the assessments at home, make sure to choose a time when you know you will not be interrupted. If you are completing more than one exercise, you might like to take a few short breaks between finishing one assessment and starting the next. Carefully read all instructions before starting an assessment and complete all practice questions. Do not panic if you don’t finish one or more timed exercises. These tests are typically not designed to be finished. Instead, try to work as accurately and as quickly as you can. If you don’t think you have worked to the best of your ability on any one assessment, try not to let this distract you, but focus instead on the next assessment. Don’t try to guess what the assessor is looking for from your assessment results. It is best to answer each question as honestly as you can. It is your personal opinions and preferences that an employer wants to see. Although personality and interest questionnaires are not timed, try not to spend too long answering any one question. Your first, instinctive response is generally the most accurate. For more information visit our sister company OPRA Psychology Group