The Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) has released a 5-year strategy for gender equality across the APS.
Unveiled by APS Commissioner Peter Woolcott, the Australian Public Service Gender Equality Strategy 2021-26 is aimed at driving practical and effective action for lasting change.
“Equality is also about recognising differences and providing tools and support so everyone has that opportunity to succeed,” Mr Woolcott said.
He said an independent evaluation of the previous Strategy — Balancing the Future: Australian Public Service Gender Equality Strategy 2016–19 — found it had a positive impact on progressing gender equality across the APS.
“However, there is more to be done and the evaluation indicated that we cannot become complacent on gender equality,” Mr Woolcott said.
“As part of the new Strategy — and a recommendation of the Australian Human Rights Commission’s Respect@Work Report — Agencies must develop gender equality strategies or action plans that address sexual harassment and safe and respectful workplaces.”
He said guidance and an implementation plan were being developed to support Agencies.
In a joint statement with the Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Philip Gaetjens, Mr Woolcott said the Strategy was the culmination of a partnership between the APS Commission and the Office for Women.
“There have been steady and lasting improvements in gender equality in the APS since the lifting of the marriage bar in 1966 and we can be proud of the progress made,” the combined statement said.
“Women now represent 50 per cent of the Senior Executive Service for the first time and our gender pay gap has continued to trend down to the current 6.6 per cent.
“Nevertheless, the challenge remains to maintain momentum and sustain progress,” it said.
“Gender equality, and broader diversity and inclusion objectives, must continue to be prioritised.”
The 47-page Strategy can be accessed at this PS News link.
