New Data Reveals Gender Pay Gaps Among Australia’s Biggest Employers

New data has been unveiled, showcasing the gender pay discrepancies at some of Australia‘s largest corporations for the first time. The revelation includes significant disparities at well-known businesses where women make up a substantial portion of their customer base. At Lion, the brewing company behind popular brands like XXXX and Tooheys, the median base pay gender gap sits at a mere 1.4%.

However, the gender pay gap widens at companies like Jetstar (53.5%), Virgin (41.7%), Qantas (39.3%), Commonwealth Bank (29.8%), Westpac (27%), insurer IAG (27.5%), and Suncorp (20.5%), surpassing the national average of 14.5%. The figures provided are focused on base pay, though including total remuneration alters the gaps for some companies.

Establishments have been submitting their data to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) for almost a decade. The government’s push for transparency has resulted in the release of gender pay gap statistics for every company with over 100 employees, sparking a movement towards accountability and change within workplaces.

A notable example is power company AGL, acknowledging its gender pay gap of 30.3%, more than double the national average. Sarah Gilbert, a key figure at AGL’s Loy Yang power station, reflects on the progress made in fostering a respectful and inclusive environment within the traditionally male-dominated industry.

The gender pay gap is a complex issue influenced by various factors. While equal pay for equal work is mandated by law, disparities often arise due to historical industry norms and gender imbalances in certain professions.

In response to public pressure and increased transparency, companies are working to close the gender pay gap by focusing on initiatives such as promoting more women to leadership positions, adjusting parental leave policies, and evaluating remuneration across all levels of the organization.

The UK‘s experience with gender pay gap reporting serves as an example, leading to a reduction in the gap over the years. Australian companies must now submit their data to WGEA annually, providing a pathway for public scrutiny and progress tracking.

Consumers are urged to consider companies’ gender equality practices when making purchasing decisions, as showcased by the substantial pay gaps at popular brands like Forever New, Decjuba, City Chic, and Lorna Jane, which target predominantly female clientele.

Overall, the newfound transparency surrounding gender pay gaps is driving conversations and actions within companies, emphasizing the importance of equity and diversity in the workplace.