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Australia ranks 11th globally for women, according to the Women, Peace and Security Index released in October 2023. This assessment considers factors like employment opportunities, safety levels, and inclusion in economic, political, and legal domains. Here are key facts you should know.
At the forefront: Women throughout Australia’s history
There’s no denying it: Australia has long been a safe place for its female population, persistently advancing towards equality and inclusion despite evident challenges.
Second only to New Zealanders globally in securing the right to vote, Australian women made significant strides in politics as early as 1902 when they became eligible for federal parliament elections. Edith Cowan made history by winning a seat in the West Australian Legislative Assembly in 1921, marking the first official entry of a woman into politics. Since then, women’s presence and influence in institutional settings have steadily grown. Currently, 38% of parliamentarians are women.
While there remains much ground to cover, Australia has witnessed remarkable instances of unprecedented success. In 2010, for example, all of Sydney’s top offices were held by women: Clover Moore as Lord Mayor and State Member, Kristina Keneally as State Premier, Marie Bashir as State Governor, Julia Gillard as Prime Minister, Quentin Bryce as Governor-General of Australia and Elizabeth II as Australian Head of State.
Women’s present: Australia’s ongoing progress
Today, statistics show that Australia is actively pursuing equality in three key areas.
Education
Australia boasts the fourth-highest rate of women with tertiary education among OECD countries. Almost two-thirds of women (63.3%) have qualifications beyond secondary school, with more than one-third (35.2%) having a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- What’s in it for you? Access to quality education and high-level qualifications for your future endeavors.
Employment and Economy
40% of managers in Australia are women, 6 points above the OECD average. This compares with 27% in Italy and 34% in Spain. However, please read the numbers carefully: challenges indeed remain.
- What’s in it for you? Increased opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles in various industries.
Diversity and Inclusion
Australia’s female population is diverse. According to the Women Report Card 2023, 28.3% are foreign-born and 48.5% have at least one foreign-born parent. These figures underscore Australia’s reputation as a multicultural and remarkably inclusive nation.
- What’s in it for you? A vibrant and inclusive society where your unique background and experiences are valued.
A matter of priorities
What’s positive is that the Australian government recognizes gender equality as a national priority. Each year, the Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce (WEET) is required to submit a report to the Australian Parliament detailing the progress and effectiveness of government policies aimed at achieving economic equality. Recently, the 2023 report was released, along with a 10-year plan to increase women’s participation in the Australian economy.
Plus, with a pay gap of 11.6%, Australia is below the global average for pay inequality, marking an all-time low. While significant progress has been made, there is still much to be done.
What more can be done?
The journey to true inclusivity is an ongoing one; it requires continuous commitment and effort. This is especially true in Australia. For example, it’s imperative to amplify the voices of Aboriginal women and girls, who are often underrepresented, marginalized, and unsupported. Progress in this area remains very slow, underscoring the urgent need to rapidly accelerate efforts.
Our commitment: A shared future
At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to inclusivity – a principle that knows no bounds of gender and extends to all. While the term “inclusion” is widely recognized and embraced, we prefer to talk about a “shared” future. Inclusivity, while valuable, often focuses only on one side of the equation and overlooks the bigger picture. Our aim is broader: to cultivate a future shared by all. For us, inclusion means giving everyone exactly what they need to be successful.
Before you go…
Here’s some bonus Information: So you know just about everything
- Australia is one of the safest countries in the world, with Sydney and Melbourne both ranking in the top 10 safest cities. Brisbane and Perth are also known for their safety.
- People feel comfortable and secure in Australia, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Moreover, Australia stands out as one of the most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries worldwide.
- Australia prides itself on being one of the most welcoming and multicultural nations in the world.
- Australia places a strong emphasis on women’s rights and reducing inequality, recognizing women as vital resource for the future.
- Australia has one of the highest minimum wages in the world at over A$23 per hour.
What matters is you
Are you looking for professional and academic growth and a country that offers opportunities focusing on your skills? Well… Australia is the place for you!
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