Australia's gender equality progress remains limited despite milestones

Australia has made progress in gender equality over the last 25 years, but challenges remain. Key milestones include the election of the first female prime minister in 2010 and the introduction of paid parental leave in 2011. However, the World Economic Forum ranks Australia 24th out of 146 countries for gender equality, down from 15th in 2006. More women are now participating in the workforce and holding leadership roles compared to previous decades. Important achievements include the appointment of Australia’s first female governor-general in 2008 and recent laws aimed at closing the gender pay gap. Despite these advances, many issues persist. Women still earn less than men, with an average pay gap of 21.8%. Women are also more likely to work part-time or in casual roles, which contributes to lower retirement savings. Additionally, violence against First Nations women is a significant concern, with alarming hospitalization rates due to violence. Women are disproportionately responsible for unpaid domestic and care work, averaging about 4.13 hours daily compared to men’s 2.14 hours. This can hinder their career growth and financial independence, especially after having children. Policy changes need to address the root causes of gender inequality, rather than only supporting women in maintaining employment. Encouraging men to take on more caregiving roles could lead to better outcomes for families and children. Overall, gender inequality costs the Australian economy around $225 billion each year. Addressing this issue is vital for both societal well-being and economic health.