Victoria has just passed its first gender equality law – and that’s a historic moment for this state

“A commitment to equality is one of the values that unites Victorians, and this law marks a historic step forward not just for women, but for every person who contributes to the public sector,” says Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner Kristen Hilton. “The Gender Equality Act sets clear expectation for fairer, more equitable public sector workplaces where every employee can expect to be treated with respect.”

Under the new law, public sector organisations will need to develop a gender equality action plan and undertake periodic gender impact assessments. They’ll also need to report publicly on key gender equality indicators, including equal pay, rates of sexual harassment and how they ensure their career progression processes are fair and equitable.

“If we’re serious about gender equality, employers need to be able to pinpoint the issues and better understand the underlying causes. Supporting workplaces to develop a plan and monitor key gender equality metrics is vital for driving long-term change and removing any barriers that prevent women from advancing their careers and getting the most out of their working lives,” says Commissioner Hilton.

Once it comes into effect, the new law will apply to a wide range of public sector bodies, including local government, universities, Court Services Victoria and the Office of Public Prosecutions. A new Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner will be established to oversee the implementation of the new law, including monitoring organisations’ progress and ensuring they comply with their obligations.

“We know that transformative change is possible in even the most complex public sector organisations – our recent independent review of sex discrimination and sexual harassment in Victoria Police showed us what’s possible when an organisation puts gender equality front and centre and commits to fairer treatment for all employees,” says Commissioner Hilton.

In our submission to the Bill, the Commission recommended aligning the Gender Equality Bill with the objectives of existing equality and anti-discrimination laws, setting minimum standards for employers to meet in their gender equality action plans, and providing tailored training for public sector organisations to help them meet their obligations.

Read the Commission’s submission to the Gender Equality Bill exposure draft

Media contact

Peter Davies
Mobile: 0447 526 642
Email: peter.davies@veohrc.vic.gov.au

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