Figures released today by the Australian Institute of Company Directors reveal that the boards of Australia’s largest companies are drawing closer to achieving 30% female representation by the end of 2018.
As at the end of August 2018, women accounted for 28.5% of ASX 200 board positions. This is up from just 20.6% at the same time in 2015, when the AICD released its first Quarterly Gender Diversity report.
Over the same period, the number of ASX 200 boards with no women dropped from 30 to just three.
AICD Chairman Elizabeth Proust AO welcomed the report, and noted that the 30% target was within sight.
“There’s no doubt this report shows significant momentum in the right direction,” she said.
“Importantly, the rate of female appointments to ASX 200 boards has remained strong over the course of 2018, with women accounting for 50% of appointments. This is an indication that the move towards greater gender diversity on Australian boards is not fading.
“The rate and pace of change this year has been incredibly encouraging. It shows that voluntary targets are a powerful way to achieve change.
“Today’s results show that Australian directors recognise the value of greater diversity in the boardroom.
“Greater diversity on boards plays an important role in combatting group-think, leading to better outcomes for shareholders and stakeholders alike.”
There were three companies on the ASX 200 with no women on their boards*
- ARB Corporation Limited
- Tassal Group Limited
- TPG Telecom Limited
*As at 31 August 2018.
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