The success of a pilot program designed by the Department of Communities to increase gender equality in Western Australian workplaces has seen it extended for a further 12 months.
In a statement, the Department said the pilot was launched a year ago, when a gender equality clause was introduced into public sector procurement processes, with support from the Department of Finance.
“The clause assesses the degree to which gender equality principles are implemented by suppliers on Government contracts,” the statement said.
“In that time, the number of State Government Agencies participating in the pilot has increased from 15 to 19, and 101 contracts have been awarded with a total value of $166,823,739.”
It said the pilot had leveraged the State Government’s considerable purchasing power to encourage businesses and organisations to play their part in creating gender-equal workplaces.
“Large suppliers with 100 or more employees must provide a copy of their compliance letter demonstrating they meet gender equality reporting requirements under the Commonwealth Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012,” the statement said.
“Data shows that more than 92 per cent of companies of this size seeking Government contracts are meeting their obligations under the Act.”
Suppliers with fewer than 100 employees must answer questions about what policies or initiatives are in place to support a gender-equal workplace. Data showed room for improvement in gender equality policies and practices among companies of this size.
Minister for Women’s Interests, Sue Ellery said while significant advances had been made to remove barriers faced by women, there was still a long way to go to bring about lasting solutions and achieve gender equality.
“Research shows companies with gender diversity are more profitable and productive and have improved employee satisfaction and decision-making — it is not only the right thing to do, it also makes good business sense,” Ms Ellery said.
