Each time I read the FWX report, I come away with more questions on gender equity.
Generally, my start position is, ‘what has to happen for Australia to see real progress in gender equity and equality?’
It’s then followed by ‘what can I do differently, more of, to help shift what appears to be a never-ending discussion about economic stability for women’.
When I take a step back to reflect on these questions, I realise we have spent generations trying to find many ways to resolve the multitude of issues that still exist regarding economic equality for women.
Why? Because there are many things to solve, and not enough time or investment is spent getting to the root cause of the issues.
How I live in a society that is still dealing with domestic violence, discrimination, and inequality when we have seen significant advancement in technology, health, and financial markets is astonishing to me.
Are the right people spending the time on what really matters?
We are a society of humans who seem to be spending less and less time on human problems.
FWX target areas which are both drivers and indicators of progress. These are Unpaid Work (dual), Employment, Underemployment, Pay, Board Leadership and Superannuation.
At face value, these should not be complex to address and find a path forward, and yet we are seeing only incremental changes in areas that, if resolved appropriately, will create a cycle of economic benefit to all Australians for generations to come.
More and more families require two incomes to support their livelihood and provide security for their families.
Finding ways to direct economic resources to unpaid work, superannuation during parental leave, and pay equality would go a long way toward providing this security.
Done early and upfront in the life cycle of a women’s career could be the difference between self-reliance of her financial future versus seeking government support.
The cycle becomes virtuous and creates momentum, benefitting all of our community. When it comes down to it, this is equity and equality at its best.
Financy is a fearless believer in equality and using data insights to accelerate organisational progress in diversity, equity & inclusion.
