WGEA PAY GAP UPDATE As of March 2026, the WGEA reports the average total remuneration gender pay gap for the private sector is 21.1%, while the Workplace Gender Equality Agency reports a median gender pay gap of 16.4%. The Workplace Gender Equality Agency public sector average pay gap is 6.4%. Despite slight improvements, men are still 1.8x more likely to be in the highest pay quartile, per Workplace Gender Equality Agency.
https://www.wgea.gov.au/pay-and-gender/gender-pay-gap-data
Entries are now open for the 2026 Gender Equity Awards, recognising the leaders, organisations and initiatives driving measurable change in workplaces across Australia.
At a time when conversations around equity are facing increasing pressure, the Gender Equity Awards are once again inviting organisations and individuals across Australia to step forward and share what meaningful progress looks like in action.
Now open for 2026 entries, the awards celebrate the people, workplaces and initiatives that are not just talking about gender equity, but embedding it into leadership, culture, policy and everyday practice.
Run to spotlight and share best practice, the Gender Equity Awards recognise those creating fairer, stronger and more inclusive workplaces, while also helping others learn from what is working.
Lisa Sweeney, CEO of Business in Heels and founder of Recalibrate: Gender Equity Awards, said the program was created to recognise those who continue to lead with courage and commitment, even when the broader conversation becomes harder.
“Gender equity does not move forward on good intentions alone, it moves when leaders decide to act, when organisations measure what matters, and when people stay committed to building fairer workplaces over time,” she said.
“These awards are about recognising the people and organisations who are holding the line on progress, not for appearances, but because they understand that better workplaces are built by design.”
The 2025 awards shone a light on leading organisations including AECOM Australia, Dentons Australia, TelstraSuper, Coulter Legal, Ilan Style and Capgemini Australia, alongside individual winners Sarah Hunter, Jack Meehan, Hayley Crimmins, Devina Chatterji and Zuli Posada. Together, they reflected the breadth of work happening across Australia to create more inclusive, equitable and accountable workplaces.
Across recent winners and finalists, standout themes have included leadership accountability, inclusive recruitment and progression pathways, mentoring and sponsorship, workplace flexibility that supports career growth, and cultures designed to strengthen belonging and psychological safety. These are the kinds of practical actions the awards seek to elevate, so others can learn from what is working.
Participation is open to people of all genders, including women, men, non binary and gender diverse people. The awards welcome entries from organisations, leaders, managers, employees and advocates who are contributing to more equitable workplaces and stronger outcomes.
Sweeney said sharing practical examples matters just as much as recognising excellence.
“One of the most powerful things we can do is make good work visible. When organisations share what they have tried, what they have improved, and what has made a difference, they help accelerate progress well beyond their own walls,” she said.
“At a time when some are stepping back from this work, we believe it is more important than ever to recognise those who are stepping forward.”
Entries for the 2026 Gender Equity Awards are now open.
For more information, category details and entry information, visit https://genderequityawards.com/
About the Gender Equity Awards
The Gender Equity Awards, presented by Business in Heels, celebrate organisations and individuals across Australia who are delivering practical, measurable progress on gender equity. Now in its fifth year, the program highlights proven initiatives that improve representation, reduce pay gaps and create safe, inclusive workplaces for everyone.
About us:
About Business in Heels International.
The Gender Equity Awards honour individuals, organisations, and initiatives that are leading the charge toward more equitable and inclusive workplaces. Now in our third year, these awards shine a spotlight on best practices, celebrate meaningful progress, and inspire action to drive systemic change. By showcasing trailblazers and their impactful strategies, we aim to encourage others to follow their lead, fostering workplaces where diversity thrives and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
The company has a vision to create an unlimited future for women. It is known for its work in providing mentoring support across Australia with Mentor Mornings and Leadership Summits to inspire women into senior roles in male-dominated industries and for Recalibrate - Gender Equity Awards for Australia. Today it connects over 200,000.
Contact details:
Lisa Sweeney
CEO Business in Heels
Mob 0409441816
