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Achieving economic security one recommendation at a time

economic Security4Women’s member and partner organisations have been for over two decades presenting the issues and the data to government through our research, white papers, discussion and issue papers and NOW we are presenting one recommendation at time to Government, starting with the simpliest policy changes that can make a BIG difference to women’s economic security.  (Of course this is only the beginning – we will get to the harder ones as we continue to advocate for women’s lifelong economic wellbeing)

The Papers relating to the above can be found by clicking here

What is gender equality?

Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world.

- United Nations Sustainable Development Goal SDG5

Workplace gender equality is achieved when people are able to access and enjoy the same rewards, resources and opportunities regardless of gender.

- Workplace Gender Equality Agency

What can be done to narrow the gender pay gap?

SDG 8 – Target 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.( https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/metadata )

There were four dramatic policy changes in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s that started the first narrowing of the GPG:

  • Lifting of marriage bars from employment (1966 in the Commonwealth Public Service);
  • The ruling of the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Commission in 1969 that women should receive equal pay to men for equal work;
  • The passing of the Sex Discrimination Act in 1984; and
  • The Affirmative Action (Equal Employment Opportunity for Women) Act in 1986.

Recommendation:

Close gender pay gap through legislated wage increases skewed towards currently low paid sectors that have a high proportion of female workers.