The latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) relating to the gender pay gap show it has reached an historic low of 14.2 per cent.
In its report, Average Weekly Earnings, Australia, Nov 2018, the ABS reveals that the lowest gap of 5.4 per cent in the Australian workforce was returned in the Public Administration and Safety industry.
The figures were released by the Office for Women which said they equated to women earning $240.80 less than men on average per week, in full‑time roles working ordinary hours.
“The gender pay gap is persistent and has hovered at between 14 per cent and 19 per cent for the past 20 years. All industries continue to have a gender pay gap in favour of men,” the Office said.
“By industry, the lowest pay gap (5.4 per cent) is in Public Administration and Safety, while the highest (26.8 per cent) is in Financial and Insurance Services.”
The Office said the Women’s Economic Security Statement, launched in November last year included a package of initiatives to target education, skills, financial literacy and empowerment for women.
“In March the Minister for Women will hold a Reducing Barriers to Work forum with business to look at innovative solutions and opportunities to increase women’s workforce participation,” it said.
More information on the pay gap and other details relating to weekly earnings can be accessed on the ABS website at this PS New link .
