“Closing the gender gap in superannuation savings is a crucial step forward to improving the long-term financial security of women, given that they are more likely to spend time out of the paid workforce caring for loved ones,” the report stated.

Overall, the FWX rose 0.12 points over the September quarter to 79.44 points, a new record high with underemployment and superannuation elements playing a key role in the result.

“This record high is reflective of fragile progress. While we celebrate the gains in superannuation and hours worked, the cracks appearing in childcare confidence and the stagnation in board diversity serve as a stark reminder that our progress is not yet cemented in strong foundations,” Hartge-Hazelman said.

Women’s full-time employment fell slightly (0.1 per cent) in the quarter, as part-time employment rose by 1.2 per cent, and participation rates retreated from recent highs as childcare usage dropped following recent safety failures.

“When families can’t trust the childcare system, women step back from work and men stay out of the care workforce – reinforcing the idea that caregiving is ‘women’s work’,” Deloitte Access Economics associate director and FWX Advisory Committee member Rhiannon Yetsenga explained.

“Breaking that cycle starts with affordable, high-quality childcare, unlocking more equal participation and a more balanced gender workforce over time.”

November 26, 2025
Penny Pryo
smsmagazine.com.au