- Published:
- Monday 1 June 2020
The Andrews Labor Government has kicked off recruitment for the first ever Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner, an Australian-first position to oversee major reform across Victoria.
The Commissioner will be responsible for overseeing implementation of the Gender Equality Act 2020 and play a key leadership role in promoting gender equality in the Victorian community and workplaces.
The Gender Equality Act is the first of its kind in Australia, requiring public sector organisations to demonstrate meaningful progress on workplace gender equality.
The landmark Act will work to break down discrimination and gender barriers in the public sector and guide gender equality reform in around 300 organisations, including universities and local councils.
While progress has been made to improve gender inequality across the public sector, with women now holding 54 per cent of executive roles and the gender pay gap narrowing, there is still work to be done.
The Commissioner will initially focus on education and support for organisations, the role will include independent oversight of the reforms, monitoring progress, and ensuring compliance by organisations.
The role will report directly to the Minister for Women. Applications are now open at careers.vic.gov.au and will close on Wednesday 10 June 2020.
For more information on the Gender Equality Act 2020 visit vic.gov.au/gender-equality-bill
Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams
“Victoria is leading the nation in the pursuit of gender equality – introducing Australia’s first ever legislation which requires workplaces to proactively pursue gender equality.”
“With current working conditions putting a spotlight on the essential roles of women at both work and at home, the need for gender equality has never been more important.”
“The first ever Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner will change gender equality in Victoria, starting with the public sector. I encourage all interested and qualified people to apply for this vital position.”