Supporting gender equality vital - Williams

SUPPORTING gender equality is of vital importance to the Australian government, both at home, in diplomatic, economic empowerment and regional security, says Australian High Commissioner John Williams.

He made the comments while delivering his opening address during the launch of the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) research report Beyond 33 per cent: The Economic Empowerment of Fiji Women and Girls on Wednesday.

“We (Australian High Commission) seek to work in partnership with Fiji and the Pacific organisations to address many of the issues outlines in the report,” he said.

“Gender equality in Fiji has certainly come a long way as the report notes the significant gains made in women’s formal education levels.

“But the report is also very clear about the work that lies ahead to progress for women empowerment including low rates of women leadership and in decision making positions.”

Mr Williams added that the report painted a vivid picture of low rates of formal labour force participation, and that Fijian women were still doing most of the unpaid work, including the vast bulk of care responsibilities at home.

“I’ve heard it being said more than once that the best way to address the pay gap in every country was in every country, including Australia , in men and women is, rather than starting by paying women the same as men start by paying men the same as their female peers and see what sort of reaction that gets.

“Equity isn’t just nice to have but a must if are to enable all of our population to realise their full potential and contribute what they can to our community.”