Looking back to move forward: the (d)evolution of Australia's EEO regulatory framework

In the context of a 2009 review of Australia’s legislation governing framework
government equal opportunity for women in the workplace, this article traces
the history of Australia’s Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity
regulatory frameworks, arguing that there has been a consistent devolution in accountability
and responsibility over the years. Whilst there is considerable existing
research on EEO outcomes drawing on publicly available reports, the weakness of
the reporting mechanism means that evidence of workplace policy and practice
has not only diminished but should also be questioned for its accuracy. Drawing
from workplace case studies in three sectors, the article draws contrasts between
espoused organisational policy and some experiences of women in these workplaces.
It is suggested that this and similar evidence of limitations in our current
regulatory framework need to be considered by those crafting new legislation.