7 March 1999
Federal Sex
Discrimination Commissioner reflects on
International Women's Day
In the lead up to International Women's Day, the Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner has nominated raising community awareness about sex discrimination and sexual harassment in employment as her priority.
"This is a good opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made thus far as well as an appropriate time to take stock of what we as Australian women have yet to achieve." said Commissioner Halliday.
"We have gained significant ground over recent decades and in particular since the introduction of the federal Sex Discrimination Act (SDA). There remain those however who lack an understanding of the basic principles of equality and good management.
"A workplace free of sex discrimination and sexual harassment is a basic human right but there are those amongst us for whom this is not a reality."
This will be highlighted in the release next Tuesday of a set of educative case studies, entitled Harsh Realities, of complaints dealt with under the SDA.
"Women should have the opportunity to maximise their potential without being restricted by the traditional beliefs and values of others. But many women are still not in this position.
"While the quest for equal opportunity and pay equity remain paramount, the liberation that generations of Australian women have fought for is not about being allowed to mirror what men have done. Women being able to determine what is right for themselves as individuals is the key.
"As long as there are those who believe they can impose social roles on women and those who require women to fit traditional stereotypes, when making decisions that affect their careers, we still have a long way to go."
For further information and interviews please contact: James Iliffe on (02) 9284 9618 or 015 672 630.
Last updated 2 December 2001.
