Gender discrimination driving pay gap between Australian men and women, report finds

Rising gender discrimination is now the single biggest factor in driving a pay wedge between men and women, according to a report out today. Key points: The report says gender discrimination now accounts for 39pc of the gender pay gap It suggests the number of women in leadership positions could be boosted by targets or quotas DCA boss says Australians must challenge the idea that caring, housework falls to women Research by the advisory firm KPMG has found that "stubborn gender stereotypes" continue to harm the careers of women especially those who opt to care for children and elderly family members. KPMG Australia chairman Alison Kitchen told the ABC's AM program that gender discrimination now accounts for 39 per cent of the gender pay gap. "This report identifies the key drivers of Australia's gender gap — gender discrimination, occupational segregation and years not working due to interruptions such as child care and caring for elderly family members," Ms Kitchen said. Transparency and quotas part of the solution Solutions outlined in the report included: Addressing discrimination in hiring, promotion and training Increased pay transparency and reporting on gender pay gaps Increasing the availability of childcare; and reducing disincentives through personal tax, family payment and child support systems Increasing the share of women in leadership positions through targets, quotas and diversity policies In addition to gender discrimination, the report cited the combined impact of years not working with part-time employment and unpaid work contributes 39 per cent to the gender gap.