Mechanisms for the Advancement of Women

According to UN Women a gendered approach must be integrated into all legislation, public policies, programs and projects if we are to truly achieve gender equality and prevent violence against women. We need to ensure that a diversity of women are represented at all levels of government; as well as holding key managerial positions in workplaces and civil society organisations. 

In the City of Bayside 48.5% of women are employed as Managers or Professionals compared to 58.7% of men while in Stonnington the figures are slightly better with 54.3% of women employed as Managers or Professionals compared to 60.3% of men.

So, what can we do to address this?

Introduce policies and legislation to end discrimination in the workplace. In a report undertaken by the Australian Human Rights Commission, one in two mothers reported experiencing discrimination at some point during pregnancy, parental leave or on return to work. A third of these women looked for other work or resigned. This interrupts women’s ability to reach managerial positions within the workforce.

Set gender targets. There is a strong economic case for increased participation of women in leadership positions; however, according to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, progress has been too slow and we are yet to see the full extent of these benefits.

So, what are we waiting for? To quote Elizabeth Broderick “the empowerment of women is about the empowerment of humanity” and this is a responsibility that we must all take seriously, and urgently.

The Hon. Fiona Richardson, Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence