Human Rights Commission congratulates YWCA Equal Pay Award Recipients

EEO Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue has congratulated the winners of the inaugural YWCA Equal Pay Awards.

“Change does not happen without leadership and this is what we are seeing with these employers who are determined to address New Zealand’s persistent gender pay gap within their own organisations and businesses,” said Dr Blue.

“ Westpac (Gold Award ), Simpson Grierson and SKYCITY Entertainment Group (Silver Award), BNZ ( Bronze Award) and the Defence Force ( Highly Commended) provide inspiration to other employers, while also building momentum and awareness across sectors.”

The gender pay gap remains a reality for New Zealand workers, with women earning on average 13% less than men. The YWCA’s strategy of working alongside the business community to inspire change is a positive way of making real inroads.

“While overall larger companies are leading the diversity charge, I’m particularly pleased to see the YWCA encouraging small to medium sized businesses to enter as they account for 31% of all employees.”

Dr Blue paid tribute to the “enduring legacy” the YWCA has built for generations of New Zealand women.

“Empowering women has been the YWCA’s mission since it first started driving social and economic change for Kiwi women 136-years-ago.”

ENDS

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