As the Minister for Women and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, I am pleased to present the Gender Balance on Australian Government Boards Report 2019-20.

This year, disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the importance of women in leadership and gender diversity in senior positions. Having more women in leadership positions has been shown to lead to better outcomes, including because boards can draw on a greater range of lived experiences and skills in their decision making.

Numbers of women in leadership roles has risen. Our latest data, as at 30 June 2020, shows women hold 48.5 per cent of Government board positions. This record high result is also paired with an increase in the representation of women amongst key leadership positions on Government boards. On 30 June 2020, women held 36.9 per cent of Chair and Deputy Chair positions. This result has increased 1.9 percentage points from 30 June 2019.

Consistent reporting against targets is key to maintaining and building on our achievements. That is why the Australian Government reports on its target for women to hold 50 per cent of Government board positions overall, and why Government has committed to men and women each holding at least 40 per cent of positions on individual boards.

I acknowledge and thank my Ministerial colleagues for their continued commitment to gender equality, noting this year women have been significantly impacted by COVID-19. By giving more women a seat at the table, we ensure their experiences and their decisions can play an important role in Australia’s rebuild and recovery.

Senator the Hon Marise Payne
Minister for Foreign Affairs
Minister for Women