Gender pay equity in the Fair Work Act

The modern awards objective now includes the need to achieve gender equality in the workplace by:

• ensuring equal remuneration for work of equal or comparable value 
• eliminating gender-based undervaluation of work and
• providing workplace conditions that facilitate women’s full economic participation

The modern awards objective applies when we are exercising powers in relation to modern awards.

Changes to the minimum wages objective also include the need to achieve gender equality by:

• ensuring equal remuneration for work of equal or comparable value 
• eliminating gender-based undervaluation of work and
• addressing gender pay gaps

The minimum wages objective is considered when we are reviewing minimum wages.

Expert Panels will be formed when we are required to consider:

• equal remuneration and changes to award minimum wages that relate to gender pay equity 
• award changes that relate to the Care and Community Sector

The Expert Panels will contain members that have knowledge and experience in these areas.

To help the Expert Panels, we will also be able to direct investigations and publish reports, including reports about Gender pay equity research.  

Enquiries about the Expert Panels can be directed to awards@fwc.gov.au.

Secure Jobs Better Pay Act – what’s changing

President’s statement on expert panels for pay equity and the care and community sector

President’s Statement: Occupational segregation and gender undervaluation 

Workplace Gender Equality Agency

Fair Work Ombudsman best practice guide on gender pay equity