It follows the release of a report by KPMG on ASX-listed companies’ response to ASX Corporate Governance Council’s recommendations relating to gender diversity showing 61% of companies have established a diversity policy.
“Achieving gender diversity in workplaces requires aligning it with business strategy, treating it as a business priority (rather than an HR department initiative) and dealing with it as you would with any other business initiative. This includes setting targets for the appointment of women and putting in place the necessary leadership, focus and accountability to achieve these targets.”
“It is encouraging to see the progress outlined in the KPMG report.”
“It is worth noting that only 36% of the companies covered have set measurable objectives for achieving gender diversity and, in some cases, these are not expressed as numerical targets. This will be insufficient to drive the necessary improvement in the female talent pipeline.”
Ms Conway said the business case for gender equality is clear and is broadly accepted.