This qualitative and quantitative survey examines the drivers of the gender pay gap and the static low participation of women in the professional mining work force, and proposes solutions to overcome the underlying issues. The survey was completed by approximately 700 professionals in the minerals sector, of whom 68% were female. Following analysis, issues affecting equitable participation were identified and grouped into three main categories, with solutions proposed to address each category:

• Issues that affect females particularly (regardless of caring responsibilities)

• Issues that affect people with caring responsibilities (both males and females)

• Issues that affect people in roles that employ ‘softer’ skills (both males and females)