This paper explores the link between the unequal distribution of caring work between women and men and the unequal outcomes in workforce participation, job opportunities, gender pay gaps and the gap in superannuation savings.

Key findings:

• In Australia women spend substantially more time on unpaid care work than men.
• The unequal distribution of unpaid care work reinforces gender stereotypes, such as the ‘male breadwinner model’.
• Gender inequality in unpaid care work contributes to the gender inequalities in the labour market.
• The redistribution of unpaid care work can reduce gender stereotypes and increase female workforce participation.