The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) says it supports equality for women in the clean energy sector. 

The AER has become a signatory to the Equal by 30 campaign - a public commitment by public and private sector organisations to work towards equal pay, equal leadership and equal opportunities for women in the clean energy sector by 2030.

AER Chair Clare Savage says increasing the number of women who are choosing a career in energy is important now and into the future.

“It is an honour to lead the AER and sign on to Equal by 30, an internationally recognised initiative that is building momentum towards meaningful global change,” she said. 

“Pursuing equality is not optional – it is critical. Embracing the diverse experiences and insights of women from different cultural backgrounds, ethnicities or sexual orientation into the energy sector will help ensure a successful clean energy future.

“Our commitment to Equal by 30 is the next tangible step in our efforts to close the gender gap in the clean energy sector in Australia,” Ms Savage said.

There is 45 per cent representation of women across the AER's board and senior leadership team, and initiatives to narrow the gender gender pay gap across the AER and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have reduced the gap from 9.4 per cent to 5 per cent in the last 5 years. 

This is comparable to the current gender pay gap of 5.2 per cent in the Australian Public Service.

In 2022 the AER launched the Women in Energy Forum that meets quarterly to promote gender equality in the workplace and share learnings.

“It is pleasing to see our progress toward equality in the energy sector accelerating”, Ms Savage said.

“I hope people of all genders are motivated to be part of the clean energy future.”