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The glass ceiling is still present in Australian companies, with a new report showing the number of women in executive positions is in sharp decline.
Jun 25,2025
The latest data from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) reveals both progress and ongoing challenges in female representation at the top:
These figures represent an improvement compared to 2008, when just 10.7% of executive managers were women in ASX 200 companies. However, Australia still lags behind countries like Norway, France, and the UK in terms of gender parity in corporate leadership.
Several structural and cultural barriers continue to limit women’s progress into executive roles. According to WGEA and other leadership research, the most persistent issues include:
Even today, unconscious bias can impact leadership development. Research shows that women are often described as “emotional” or “not assertive enough” while men with the same qualities are praised for leadership potential.
Despite the challenges, a growing number of organisations are working to close the leadership gap by:
Businesses that champion gender equity aren’t just doing the right thing—they’re reaping the rewards. Diverse executive teams have been shown to improve innovation, collaboration, and financial performance.
If you’re a woman looking to move into senior leadership, here are ways to set yourself up for long-term success:
Build your executive toolkit with targeted education in areas like:
Look for senior leaders who will not only advise you, but actively advocate for your advancement. Sponsorship is a key driver in helping women reach top roles.
Whether it’s speaking at industry events, publishing insights, or leading cross-functional teams—develop your leadership brand and expand your influence internally and externally.
The glass ceiling may not be fully shattered, but cracks are forming. Women are increasingly leading teams, transforming industries, and driving innovation—and with the right support and development, many more are ready to rise.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our flexible leadership and executive courses to prepare for your future in the C-suite.
Helen Isbister brings practical career tips, study advice, and professional insights to Career FAQs readers.