Is transparency the key? WGEA’s publication of gender pay gap data is a firm reminder

Human Resources: In a stark reminder of the challenges that still persist in the fight for gender equality, Friday marked the 56th day into the new financial year that Australian women must work to earn the same average income as their male counterparts did the previous year.

This glaring disparity has ignited a rallying cry from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA), urging employers to shatter the walls of bias, discrimination, and entrenched gender stereotypes that continue to undervalue the contributions of women in the workforce.

In a climate where accomplishments by iconic figures like Taylor Swift, Barbie, and the Women’s World Cup have been front and centre, CEO of WGEA, Mary Wooldridge, underscored the need for change.

“As the Matildas have highlighted, they, like many other women, are still having to step over barriers related to their gender to achieve success. The 56 extra days that women have to work to earn the same, on average, as men, shows us that these barriers are still significant in Australian workplaces. It means that women are missing out on 13 cents, on average, for every $1 that a man makes. Currently at 13%, the gender pay gap in Australia is a persistent and pervasive issue that undermines women’s earnings,” she stated.

A pivotal transformation is on the horizon as WGEA is set to publish gender pay gap data for employers with a workforce exceeding 100 employees, starting in 2024. This move is designed to encourage employers to scrutinise their practices and delve into the factors contributing to the divide.

“When it comes to the gender pay gap, you cannot fix what isn’t being measured,” Ms Wooldridge added. “Publishing gender pay gaps is part of a much-needed, targeted strategy to tackle gender inequality through increased transparency and action.

Beyond a mere fiscal gap, an employer’s gender pay gap can significantly influence their recruitment, retention, and overall reputation. Drawing lessons from the UK, where employer gender pay gaps are publicly disclosed, women seeking employment have shown a willingness to accept reduced salaries to evade firms with pronounced gender pay disparities.

Equal Pay Day serves as a resounding call to action for all employers. The pursuit of this equality not only uplifts women but also lays the foundation for a more inclusive, progressive, and equitable future for all.

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