Women in Australia 2007 report launched on International Women’s Day

Women’s full time wages have increased by 18.8 per cent in real terms in the last decade and more women are now surviving breast and cervical cancer, according to the Women in Australia 2007 report launched today.

The Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Women’s Issues, the Hon. Julie Bishop launched the report to coincide with International Women’s Day, which this year focuses on women’s health and wealth.

“The report found more women than men are being educated at secondary school and university and one million jobs have been created for women over the last 10 years,” Minister Bishop said.

“While there are some areas needing improvement, the Howard Government is working towards improving health and wealth for women across Australia.

“This edition of Women in Australia is the first to present 10 year trend statistics measuring women’s progress in education and training, labour force participation, economic resources and safety.

“It brings together statistics reflecting many aspects of Australian women’s lives and how they have changed over time and is designed to inform policy makers, academics, women’s interest groups and other interested members of the public.

“International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the status of women in different cultures and regions across the globe as well as recognise the achievements of women and their contribution to society.

“The year’s theme, Women’s Health: Women’s Wealth recognises the importance of women’s needs to make positive choices for themselves to enhance their wellbeing and ability to function in their multiple roles.

“The release of the Women in Australia 2007 report is timely as it highlights women’s contributions and acknowledges their progress whilst providing a valuable tool in focusing on areas for development,” Minister Bishop said.