The CA ANZ Women Members’ Panel is dedicated to making a positive impact on gender equity in accounting. The Panel guides CA ANZ’s gender equity work, acts as a sounding board, and ensures women’s voices are heard and valued.

“As a panel we want to have positive momentum around achieving gender equality outcomes for our members. That includes participation in the Chartered Accounting profession, progressing through their careers, and closing the persistent pay gap.”

Why the Panel matters

Women make up nearly half of our membership, but gender inequities persist. CA ANZ’s annual Member Remuneration Surveys and biennial Member Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Surveys show:

• The gender pay gap is 24% in New Zealand and 14% in Australia.
• Women are underrepresented in senior roles, especially as equity partners.
• Women are less likely to achieve successful pay negotiations and feel less comfortable discussing remuneration.
• Flexible work and remote options are more highly valued by women.
• Women report experiencing higher rates of negative workplace behaviours, including being 2.5 times more likely than men to have experienced sexual harassment at work in the past five years.

The Women Members’ Panel provides a vital member voice as we address these issues and work towards a more equitable profession.

“With women representing 51% of our provisional members compared to 43% of full members, it is clear that the demographic sands of the profession are shifting. Therefore, it is imperative for us to collectively address the issues facing women if we are to retain and develop key talent within the profession.”

Who is on the Panel

The panel brings together up to 20 women members who are champions for gender equity. They represent a range of geographies, ethnicities, ages, career stages, roles and sectors, ensuring diverse perspectives and experiences.

How the Panel makes a difference

The Women Members’ Panel contributes to a range of initiatives that help shift the dial on gender equity, including:

• Parliamentary submissions
• Tools and resources for members and organisations
• Acuity magazine articles and social media
• Gender equity initiatives
• Key research projects

Panel members take action by:

• Reviewing and providing feedback
• Sharing their perspectives and experiences
• Drawing on their networks
• Giving guidance and raising issues
• Making suggestions and contributing ideas