Plan International Australia (PIA) has unveiled a research project called "Gender Compass" that sheds light on the perspectives of ordinary Australians regarding gender equality. Gender Compass segments the Australian population into six distinct groups based on their beliefs, values, motivators, policy preferences, and behaviours concerning gender equality.

In 2023, feminism experienced a celebratory wave in Australia, from the Matildas' World Cup success to the blockbuster Barbie film. Despite these positive developments, the World Economic Forum predicts that global gender equality will take over 130 years to achieve. This means that a girl born in Australia in 2062 may still not witness gender equality in her lifetime.

Susanne Legena, CEO at PIA, says that everyone should be alarmed by this: “We need to do better. We must come together to beat the clock on gender inequality, until we are all equal in this world.”

Gender Compass was developed by PIA in collaboration with research partners Dr. Rebecca Huntley and Heartward Strategic. It was based on an online survey of 2,522 Australians aged 16 and over, conducted in mid-2023.

The study revealed some critical insights:

• 90 per cent of respondents recognise the importance of granting Australian women the same rights, opportunities, and outcomes as men.
• There is widespread belief that a fair society benefits all genders.
• However, 59 per cent of Australians believe that gender equality is already close to being achieved, showing a lack of consensus.
• The study identifies six segments in Australian society with varying views on gender equality, from "Trailblazers" to "Rejectors."

Despite the progress made, the findings highlight persistent challenges:

• Only 26 per cent of respondents disagreed with the notion that women are more naturally suited to be the primary caregivers of children and elderly parents.
• Just 53 per cent agree that it's crucial for Australians to advocate for gender equality globally.
• 25 per cent expressed disagreement or uncertainty about individuals having the freedom to make choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health rights.

Attitudes and Perceptions:

• 58 per cent agreed with the idea that certain jobs are inherently suited to men or women.
• A concerning 19 per cent believed that men making jokes about women among themselves is acceptable.
• 16 per cent considered it problematic if a woman in a romantic relationship earns more than the man.
• 13 per cent agreed that individuals should engage in sexual activity with their partner, even when they don't feel like it.

Plan International Australia’s mission: PIA is a prominent humanitarian and girls' rights organisation that aims to create a world where gender equality prevails. Through Gender Compass, they hope to better understand prevailing views on gender equality and drive more targeted and effective communication and advocacy efforts.

Ms Legena emphasised the importance of Gender Compass as a tool to engage with Australians on gender justice. She highlighted both progress and persistent challenges, including violence against women and the gender pay gap. Ms Legena stressed the urgency of achieving gender equality and called for collective action.

In summary, Gender Compass provides valuable insights into the diverse views held by ordinary Australians on gender equality. It serves as a tool to guide advocacy efforts and promote understanding of beliefs and attitudes surrounding this crucial issue. The study indicates that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to achieve true gender equality in Australia and beyond.