The Champions of Change Rail Implementation leaders met this week, following listen and learn and leadership shadow activities members have been undertaking. The group focused on key areas and action plans needed to achieve gender equality in the Australian rail industry.
The meeting also discussed the outcomes of the Plan International Australia’s Gender Compass research which revealed concerning data from 2,522 Australians aged 16 showing a “perception gap” on the issue.
The results indicated only a small group of supporters, who understand that safety, economic and productivity and inclusivity outcomes that gender equity can achieve in business and society.
The data revealed these responses from people who identify as:
- Rejector – believe gender equality is no longer an issues and equality for women has gone too far (17%)
- Indifferent – gender equality is not on their radar (6%)
- Moderate – restrained support for gender equality (23%)
- Conflicted – equality is important but not action to address it (12%)
- Hopefuls – largely aware of the issues and support of measures to address inequality (24%)
- Trailblazers – strong views informed by their lived experience of gender inequality (19%)
Data also showed that 59 per cent believe gender equality has mostly been achieved or is already in place. This indicates a significant perceptions gap, underscoring the need for targeted strategies to address misconceptions and promote future progress toward true gender equality.