Clean energy sector shoots for gender equity

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has signalled its commitment to gender equality in the energy sector by becoming a signatory to the Equal by 30 campaign.

Equal by 30 represents a commitment by public and private sector organisations to work towards equal pay, equal leadership and equal opportunities for women in the clean energy sector by 2030.

“Our commitment to Equal by 30 is the next tangible step in our efforts to close the gender gap in the clean energy sector in Australia,” said AER Chair Clare Savage.

Currently, the AER has 45% representation of women across its board and senior leadership team. Initiatives to narrow the gender pay gap across the AER and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have reduced the gap from 9.4% to 5% in the last five years. This is comparable to the current gender pay gap of 5.2% in the Australian Public Service.

Savage said pursuing equality was critical, not optional. “Embracing the diverse experiences and insights of women from different cultural backgrounds, ethnicities or sexual orientation into the energy sector will help ensure a successful clean energy future,” she said.

In 2022 the AER launched the Women in Energy Forum, which meets quarterly to promote gender equality in the workplace and share knowledge.

“It is pleasing to see our progress toward equality in the energy sector accelerating,” Savage said.

“I hope people of all genders are motivated to be part of the clean energy future.”

For information on Equal by 30, including a list of other signatory companies and governments, visit https://www.equalby30.org/.

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