Fully realising the economic potential of women in Australia
Gender inequalities in Australia have steadily declined, but remain particularly visible
in the labour market. Women in Australia have lower employment rates, hourly wages
and hours worked than their male counterparts. Childbirth is particularly disruptive
for their labour market experience. Reforms to the tax and benefits system, childcare
and parental leave arrangements are all needed to reduce the barriers to female labour
participation of mothers. At the same time, ensuring the adequacy of unemployment
benefits will support the living standards of many low-income women given that they
have become an increasing share of recipients. Single mothers face particularly high
poverty risk and would also benefit from more robust arrangements around child support
payments from non-custodial parents.
Published on April 24, 2024
In series:OECD Economics Department Working Papersview more titles