As the Minister for Women and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, I am pleased to present the Gender Balance on Australian Government Boards Report 2020–21.
This year, the Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison MP, and I established a new Cabinet Taskforce on Women’s Safety and Economic Security. The purpose of the taskforce is to deliver practical, effective outcomes for Australian women.
The Cabinet Taskforce played a vital role in developing and delivering a $3.4 billion Women’s Budget Statement, which builds on the 2018 and 2020 Women’s Economic Security Statements, including continuing to promote women’s leadership opportunities and choice. Having women in visible positions of leadership is vital in bringing about cultural change, ensuring respect for women in the workplace and providing role models to inspire the next generation.
The Government has made significant strides in its commitment to see more women serving on Australian Government boards. Our latest data, as at 30 June 2021, shows women hold 49.6 per cent of Government board positions – the highest result since reporting commenced. This is an excellent result and brings us very close to reaching the Government’s target of women holding 50 per cent of board positions. It is paired with a significant increase in the representation of women in key leadership positions on Government boards. At 30 June 2021, women held 39.1 per cent of Chair and Deputy Chair positions. This result has increased 2.2 percentage points from 30 June 2020.
While these are positive results, there is more to do to improve women’s representation in positions of leadership. Consistent reporting against targets is key to continuing our good work and achieving the target. That is why the Australian Government reports on its target for women to hold 50 per cent of Government board positions overall, and why Government has committed to women and men each holding at least 40 per cent of positions on individual boards.
I acknowledge and thank my Ministerial colleagues for their continued commitment to gender equality, noting that we all have a role to drive change. With more women in leadership roles, decisions are informed by broader perspectives and opinions of all Australians.
Senator the Hon Marise Payne
Minister for Foreign Affairs
Minister for Women