This study examines ten years of Women, Business and the Law data through an index structured around the economic decisions women make as they go through different stages of their working lives. It provides insight into how women’s employment and entrepreneurship choices are affected by legal gender discrimination.

Researchers surveyed almost 2,000 Australian employees across more than 14 industries to assess how males engage with gender equality initiatives, finding that while most men support gender equality, only a small percentage prioritise taking action. This effort needs to increase if women are to achieve equality.

Over 2.5 billion women and girls around the world are affected by discriminatory laws and the lack of legal protections. This report argues that law reform is essential for the achievement of gender equality, and sets out a framework for a multistakeholder approach.

Through this research, older women have been given the opportunity to provide their insights and share their experiences about living in Melbourne. The research highlights seven key themes important to older women as they age, including social connectedness, financial security and family and generational change.

This report provides insight into positive change that has been made across different sectors in recent years and highlights the importance of workplace policy initiatives in ensuring women continue to progress into senior positions and in narrowing the gender pay gap in Australia.