Young women are driving significant changes in workplace culture while their male counterparts tend to adopt more traditional views, according to industry experts. The Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) reports an alarming 21.8 per cent gender pay gap in Australia, indicating that women earn only 78 cents for every dollar earned by men, resulting in an annual income disparity averaging $28,425.
Numerous factors contribute to this inequality, including biases in hiring and pay, women’s heavier responsibilities in unpaid care work, and the lower wages associated with female-dominated professions. However, there has been a notable shift in recent years, primarily attributed to a new generation of women entering the workforce and rejecting outdated notions of inequality. Helen McCabe, founder of Future Women, emphasises that younger women are spearheading organisational reforms, refusing to accept the status quo that previous generations often tolerated.
McCabe contrasts the attitudes of younger women with those of their predecessors, who sometimes dismiss current challenges, suggesting that things were different in their time and encouraging younger women to ‘just move on.’ This generational contrast has sparked a vibrant and engaging conversation about equality in the workplace.
While WGEA acknowledges some progress, noting that 56 per cent of employers have improved their gender pay disparities recently, McCabe points out that young men can no longer expect the privileges once afforded to older males. Historically, societal structures have favoured men in job promotions, salaries, and leadership roles. However, this trend is shifting; young men must now compete with equally qualified female candidates in an evolving job landscape influenced by measures such as quotas or targets.
Future Women aims to support both men and women in navigating these workplace changes. McCabe highlights the importance of involving men in discussions about gender equality to enhance leadership for all employees, fostering a more inclusive workplace environment.
To facilitate this dialogue, Future Women has introduced a ‘diamond membership’ offering members access to guest speakers, networking opportunities, and professional development resources. Events bring together women from diverse sectors, including finance, business, and politics, creating powerful synergies that empower participants.
The feedback from these initiatives has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants eager for more opportunities to connect and grow. In summary, the call for gender equality in workplaces continues to gain momentum, driven by the determination of younger women and the evolving expectations of young men.