Why Equality Matters

Gender equality is essential for a safe, healthy, and thriving community. Historically, women have carried the primary responsibility for childcare and household duties, limiting their opportunities for paid work, leadership, and community participation. These inequalities can reduce economic security, restrict decision-making power, and increase vulnerability to family violence.

Differences in outcomes and opportunities 

Traditional roles and expectations have led to significant disparities between women and men in areas such as education, employment, income, health, and safety. Here are some examples:

Violence and Safety

• Women are three times more likely than men to experience physical or sexual assault by a partner, sexual harassment, or stalking
• Men commit most assaults, stalking, and sexual harassment

Workplace Harassment

• Women are twice as likely to experience sexual harassment or bullying at work
• Many people experience discrimination during pregnancy or when returning to work after caring for children

Employment and Income

• Women are less likely to hold paid work or full-time jobs
• Women earn slightly less per hour than men and accumulate far less superannuation due to lower workforce participation

Education

• Boys are twice as likely to have a childhood disability and less likely to complete secondary school or university

Sport and Recreation

• Women are half as likely to join sporting clubs and receive less funding and media coverage in elite sports

Health and Wellbeing

• Women experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, and post traumatic disorder
• Men have higher mortality rates, lower life expectancy, and rates of suicide three times higher than women

Our Commitment

The City of Greater Dandenong promotes equal respect and opportunity through:

• Gender equity programs in schools and workplaces
• Community initiatives that challenge stereotypes and promote respectful relationships
• Advocacy for equal access to housing, employment, and leadership roles

Equality benefits everyone. Together, we can create a community where all people—women and men, girls and boys—have the same rights, respect, and opportunities.

Benefits of Equality between Women and Men

Gender equality is more than fairness—it strengthens communities, improves wellbeing, and drives economic growth. When women and men have equal respect and opportunity, everyone benefits.

Why Equality Matters

• A Fairer Society
  Equality creates a just and inclusive community where all people can thrive.
• Broader Opportunities for Women
  Equal opportunity and safety are basic human rights. They help prevent violence and allow girls and boys to develop their own identities.
• Improved Family Wellbeing
  Gender equity supports healthier, happier families and better outcomes for children.
• More Fulfilling Roles for Men
  Flexible work arrangements enable men to share caring responsibilities, creating balance in family life.
• Stronger Communities
  Societies with greater gender equality experience more stability, security, and peace.
• A More Productive Economy
  Increasing women’s participation in the workforce boosts productivity, living standards, and innovation by harnessing diverse skills and perspectives.

Equality Benefits Everyone

By promoting equal respect and opportunity, we build a community where women and men can contribute fully—at home, at work, and in civic life.