Are You Paid What You’re Worth? Exposing Workplace Inequality in Australia
A recent survey by Randstad, a global HR services company, has revealed that nearly half of LGBTQIA+ workers in Australia have faced discrimination at work. The Workmonitor Pulse survey, which included over 2,000 LGBTQIA+ employees worldwide, sheds light on the challenges this community faces in their professional lives.
The survey found that one in three LGBTQIA+ workers believe their sexuality or gender identity has hurt their pay and career growth. This discrimination has forced 29% of them to quit their jobs and 31% to change their career paths. Also, 38% of LGBTQIA+ job seekers have decided not to apply for a job because they were afraid of being discriminated against.
Lack of inclusion hurts productivity and well-being
When LGBTQIA+ employees can’t be themselves at work, it affects their productivity and well-being. One-third of them say they feel less motivated and productive in these situations. Additionally, 34% of them prefer to work from home whenever they can because they don’t feel like their office is a welcoming place.
While 62% of those surveyed say their employers have taken real steps to create a fair workplace, there’s still more work to be done. Half of the LGBTQIA+ workers surveyed think their employer’s participation in Pride Month celebrations is more for show than a genuine effort.
LGBTQIA+ workers value allyship and support more than ever
Now more than ever, LGBTQIA+ employees value allyship and support from their employers. 59% of them say it’s very important to them. However, only 55% agree that their employers are active allies, and 28% feel more alone at work than they did five years ago.
Madeline Hill, General Manager of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Randstad Australia, emphasises the need for continued efforts to create inclusive workplaces. She says, “Business leaders have a responsibility to make real, meaningful change happen. Workers consistently tell us that being themselves at work helps them be more productive, motivated, and able to reach their full potential.”
As the world of work changes, companies must focus on attracting and keeping top talent by creating inclusive environments where all employees can succeed, no matter their sexuality or gender identity.
