Understanding Equal Pay Day

One in three women has experienced physical violence since the age of 15.

I often speak with workplace leaders who are horrified by that statistic. Understanding the scale of the issues women face can leave many feeling powerless – but I am passionate about helping leaders see that they have a vital role in addressing the ways gender inequality can lead to violence.

The United Nation’s International Equal Pay Day is coming up on 18th September. Equal Pay Day is a fantastic opportunity for leaders to reflect on what this day represents and how it is linked to the wider issue of gender-based violence.

By taking action against issues like the gender pay gap, leaders can improve workplace conditions for women and build a future free from inequality and violence.

What is the link between equal pay and gender-based violence? 

Gender inequality is the key driver of violence against women.

Consider an iceberg – we only see what is above the surface, when there is much more below.

When we think about gender-based violence, we may think about physical and emotional abuse, which sits above the surface of the iceberg.

But beneath, we have the many forms of inequality that create the conditions that allow violence to occur – issues like harmful gender stereotypes, sexist jokes and unequal pay.

According to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency , Australia’s gender pay gap is currently 21.1% and for every $1 a man makes, a woman earns 79c. This adds up to approximately $12,000 per year.

When women don’t have access to financial security, their ability to make independent decisions, pursue career opportunities and plan for the future is compromised, impacting everything from everyday choices and autonomy to housing, retirement and even safety.

But when leaders prioritise equal pay, safety and respect in their workplaces, they are driving meaningful change across their business, industry and community .

Why is Equal Pay Day important? 

Equal Pay Day is a powerful tool for awareness and starts the conversation about what the gender pay gap is – and what it isn’t.

It’s an opportunity for leaders to look at data from their own business and across their industry, listen to their employee’s lived experiences of workplace gender inequality and collectively share what’s working when it comes to driving change.

What is the difference between the gender pay gap and equal pay? 

The gender pay gap is not the same as equal pay, and it is important to note the differences.

Equal pay is a legal requirement where employees receive the same pay for doing the same work. It has been a requirement for Australian businesses since 1969.

The gender pay gap shows the difference in pay between women and men as a whole, comparing different businesses, industries and roles.

It highlights the broader system of inequality where women are more likely to:

- work in lower-paid roles and industries

- work in part-time or casual employment

- take time off from paid work to care for children, parents, or others

- experience sexual harassment or discrimination at work

- experience family or domestic violence

Source: Retirement Income Review Final Report 2020

That is why it is important to understand that when someone talks about addressing the gender pay gap, they aren’t talking about “equal pay for equal work” – they are talking about the structures and inequities that means the average woman in Australia earns less than the average man.

How can businesses take action to close the gender pay gap? 

Equal Pay Day is an opportunity for leaders to commit to taking action on the gender pay gap and provide additional resources to make meaningful change.

Tip 1: Conduct an audit

A gendered audit of staff conditions can offer valuable insights into the gender pay gap, as well as other aspects of working life for your staff.

Reviewing pay, superannuation, benefits and other conditions though focus groups, entry and exit data or staff surveys are a good way to get started.

Tip 2: Ensure women have access to leadership pathways

Look at how women in your business can access higher salaries, leadership roles and sustainable career progression. Consider whether you could support these pathways through formal mentoring or sponsorship programs.

Tip 3: Work with your industry

I have seen businesses have great success when working in collaboration or consultation with others in their industry. This will help you understand what works well in other workplaces and how you can apply those strategies to your own. It also gives you an opportunity to lead by example and set the standards in your industry.

How can employees take action on Equal Pay Day? 

Equal Pay Day is also an opportunity for all employees to make their voices heard.

Start the conversation by sharing your feedback or insights on gender equal conditions, either through existing workplace channels or with your manager.

You can also use this as an opportunity to discuss Equal Pay Day with your colleagues, making sure to challenge any myths about the gender pay gap. Educating colleagues and being an active bystander when you hear misinformation about the gender pay gap, gender equality and gender-based violence are an important part of building a safer society, and it’s a role we can all play.

How can the Our Watch Institute help businesses  

The Our Watch Institute can support your business on Equal Pay Day and beyond. We offer a variety of services including

Pulse checks

This can include auditing pay, conditions and employee consultation.

Leadership training

This involves training senior leadership to have a strong understanding of the links between gender inequality, including the gender pay gap, and how it is linked to the issue of gender-based violence. Leaders will also learn about their role in preventing gender-based violence and the steps they can take.

Active bystander training

Our active bystander training will empower staff of all levels to feel confident in addressing discrimination, harassment or misinformation on gender equality.

Are you planning to take action on Equal Pay Day? Reach out today using the form at the bottom of the page or email us to discuss your goals.