On Wednesday, the ARA, with the support of National Women in Transport, launched a significant report into gender equality in rail.
Progressing gender equality in the Australasian rail sector: barriers and supportive practices was prepared by specialist consulting firm Diversity Partners to better understand the barriers and challenges hindering women’s entry, retention and progression in the rail industry.
The report shows there is a considerable amount of work still to do to make the industry an employer of choice for women.
The research included more than 570 surveys, written submissions and focus groups, and highlighted a variety of issues experienced by women that need to be addressed to ensure the rail industry can attract and retain more women in the workforce.
The report also explores the benefits of achieving gender parity and supporting women’s leadership within the rail industry, as well as best practice initiatives to foster greater gender diversity, drawing from successful examples in various industries both within Australia and globally.
It sets out 10 practical recommendations for organisations to improve gender diversity and inclusion and provides an important opportunity for organisations and leaders to review their practices, enhance their efforts and work collaboratively towards a more safe, sustainable and productive workforce and industry.
The ARA will now seek to work with members to coordinate the implementation of the report’s recommendations and play a leading role in driving positive change across the industry.
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