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Survey paints a troubling picture of sexism in the ad industry

Published 7 December 2021

Gender inequality remains pervasive in the Australian advertising industry, according to the results of a national survey released today.shEqual “ Australia’s movement for advertising equality “ today released preliminary results of a landmark national survey exploring perceptions of gender equality within the advertising industry at an online event, Bold & Strong: Presenting the shEqual Survey results.

Disappointingly, the survey findings show that, while some progress has been made, sexism and gender discrimination continue to be everyday experiences for many women in the advertising industry. Survey respondents shared alarming stories of everything from sexist jokes to pregnancy discrimination to sexual assault.CEO of Women’s Health Victoria Dianne Hill said: The advertising industry is not alone in needing to tackle sexism and gender discrimination. But it is in a uniquely powerful position to influence positive change “ not only in the workplace but in the ads we see and hear every day.

The shEqual survey findings are a call to action for the advertising industry to lead the way on gender equality. We are calling on the industry to get real¦ because it’s time to get equal.

For more information about shEqual, visit shequal.com.au

Citation:

Women's Health Victoria (2021) Survey paints a troubling picture of sexism in the ad industry. Women's Health Victoria Media Release. 2021 (Dec 7).

Advertising Gender Equality Media Release Sexual Harassment shEqual Workplaces
Survey paints a troubling picture of sexism in the ad industry

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Acknowledgement of Country

Women’s Health Victoria acknowledges and pays our respects to the Traditional Owners of the land that our offices are situated on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.

As a statewide organisation, we also acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands and water across Victoria. We pay our respects to them, their cultures and their Elders past and present.

Read more about our Reconciliation Action Plan

Our Commitment to Gender Diversity and Inclusion

Women’s Health Victoria’s focus is women (cis and trans inclusive) and gender-diverse people. We address feminist health issues and are committed to supporting all people impacted by gender inequity who can benefit from our work. As a proud intersectional feminist organisation, Women’s Health Victoria is working towards meaningful inclusivity, guided by and supporting people who identify as women, trans, intersex and gender diverse.

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