62% of the Australian workforce believes equal opportunity for women would benefit the workplace

A recent research by Plan International Australia reveals that Australian workplaces are poised to play a critical role in advancing gender equality.

The Plan International Australia Gender Compass survey, which polled 2,048 Australians aged 16 and older, found that 90% of respondents said gender equality was important to them and agreed that all people should be treated with equal respect and dignity, regardless of gender. At the workplace level, 75% said they were open to discussing gender equality and related topics, while 62% believed that ensuring women have access to the same rights and opportunities as men would benefit everyone.
However, the findings reveal a significant gap between perception and reality. While 60% of respondents believe Australia is close to or has already achieved gender equality, Plan International Australia's CEO Susanne Legena noted that real-world data on the gender pay gap, workplace discrimination, and under-representation of women in leadership positions tell a different story. Half of those surveyed said women are treated fairly in most areas of life, despite ongoing challenges such as unpaid labour disparities, gender-based violence, and systemic career barriers.
The survey also highlighted broader concerns, 30% of respondents said there is a "war on men," reflecting growing tensions around gender discussions. Support for transgender and non-binary rights was notably lower, with less than 60% backing equal rights and opportunities for gender-diverse individuals.
Legena warned of rising backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in Australia, echoing global trends that threaten to undermine decades of progress. In response, Plan International Australia is launching a messaging guide aimed at helping leaders and organisations communicate more effectively about gender equality.
Legena also stressed the need to engage more men and boys in the conversation to foster inclusive, future-focused workplaces. "People don't want anything that pits men against women; they want solutions that can build a positive future that benefits everyone," she said.