What is the gender pay gap and is it closing?. Sociology

The gender pay gap is when there is a difference in reimbursement for paid work between the genders. It is typically expressed as a percentage of the male's wages. As of 2017, the average pay gap in Australia is at 15.3% or $251 less weekly (Workplace Gender Equality Agency, 2017). The factors that contribute to this have been identified as discrimination and bias in hiring, the markedly different industries the different genders work in and that women take significant time off which may affect career progression. There are multiple agencies present at a national and international level to address this issue but within 10 years, the rates have been fluctuating within the same margin of 14.9% to 18.5% (Workplace Gender Equality Agency, 2017). It is unlikely that the gender pay gap be eradicated completely but it is moving in the right direction and is closing.