The Australian Human Rights Commission has welcomed the passing of the Federal Government’s Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Amendment Bill through the Senate.

 

Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Elizabeth Broderick, said it is an important step in the right direction towards improving women’s participation in the workforce and closing the gender gap in the workplace.

 

“This is an important piece of legislation that will provide a solid foundation for improving gender equality in employment and in the workplace,” Commissioner Broderick said. “It applies to both men and women in the workplace.”

 

To reflect its expanded scope, the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Act 1999 has been renamed the Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012.

 

Commissioner Broderick said the principal objects of the Act have been amended to promote and improve workplace gender equality, with specific recognition that equal remuneration and family and caring responsibilities are central to improving the workforce participation of women.

 

“Recognition in the Act of equal remuneration strengthens capacity for closing the gender pay gap,” said Commissioner Broderick. “Enabling greater participation of women in the workforce will also make a significant contribution to strengthening Australia’s productivity.”