This International Women’s Day (IWD) HSUWA celebrates the women who have devoted their professional lives to the healthcare of Western Australians.
This year’s IWD theme is ‘Accelerate Action’ and we know nobody accelerates action like HSUWA Members! Did you know that according to data from the World Economic Forum at the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity? As union members, we know everyone is responsible for improving equity for future generations. Here are a few ways Members have recently ‘accelerated action’ for gender parity:
Advocacy for fairer pay in recognition of historic gender-based undervaluation of work: HSUWA Delegates have been part of the HSU’s efforts during the Fair Work Commission’s (FWC) Review of the Health Professionals and Support Services (HPSS) Award. This Award underpins wages and conditions in private health, including pathology companies. HSU Delegates from WA and across the country, gave strong evidence to support pay increases in recognition that they are part of highly feminised workforces that have historically been undervalued. We now await the Fair Work Commission’s decision.
Supporting Women to Retire with Dignity: Members in the WA public sector have won the right to be paid superannuation for 24 weeks (up from 12 weeks) when on unpaid parental leave. This is a significant win for HSUWA Members and sets a strong benchmark for private sector employers to also meet.
National Advocacy for Reproductive Health Leave: HSU Members across the country are advocating for a minimum of 12 days paid leave for reproductive health issues to be made available to all workers through the National Employment Standards. In addition, Members are advocating for flexible work arrangements, and reasonable adjustments made available for all those experiencing reproductive health issues. HSUWA Members can sign the petition here.
Happy International Women’s Day to the HSUWA women who are making things better for the next generation of health workers.
