Australian Democrats - Women's Policy Release

The NFAW welcomes the release by Senator Stott-Despoja of the women’s policy statement for the Australian Democrats.

NFAW spokesperson Marie Coleman said: “Australian women want universal paid maternity leave and equal pay for equal work.

Over the past ten months a consortium of women’s organisations has conducted national research into issues facing women in Australia. This research revealed major concerns where women are seeking immediate action.

“Women want something done about bringing in a national system of paid maternity leave to replace the existing ad hoc arrangements which leave the vast number of women without any support. Despite statements by the Government, the ABS tells us that only 37% of women have access to a system of paid maternity leave. Some women are able to make shift with using their holiday pay and sick leave, but most have nothing at all.

“Women also identified major concern about the growing gender wage gap. Despite Government claims that male and female incomes are converging, the ABS data show that the Australian gender wage gap is increasing.

“Women have identified a real concern that low (and increasingly lower) wages mean they have less chance to make adequate provision for retirement incomes.

“The Democrats statement offers concrete solutions to some of the concerns being faced by Australian women.

“It is time for the other Parties to offer concrete proposals to meet women’s expressed needs.”

Further comment from Marie Coleman 041 4483067