Females in the labour force

IBISWorld forecasts the number of females in the labour force to mount by 1.6% in 2024-25, to average 7.18 million people. Increases in the female population aged between 15 and 45, as well as net migration, are expected to be key drivers of this trend. Growth in the number of women aged between 15 and 45 is anticipated to outpace that of the overall population during the year. The recent cost-of-living crisis prompts mothers with young children to re-enter the labour force quickly, hoping that a second income stream will help alleviate financial pressures.

The number of females in the labour force has expanded over the past years as the government and businesses have continued to address gender equality in the workforce. According to the federal government's 2024 Status of Women Report Card, the gender pay gap has reduced to 12% in November 2023, marking the lowest level on record. The increasing trend of employers providing paid parental leave, which supports workers with economic stability and career continuity, has contributed to retaining female employees. Concerns about rising costs of living represent another factor expanding the female labour force. Two incomes per household are now viewed as necessary, especially when trying to purchase a house in the larger capital cities of Australia.

The retirement of older workers and the re-entry of mature-aged females into the workforce have contributed to growth in the female labour force over the past few years. Similarly, growth in the female population aged between 15 and 45 has expanded the pool of women entering the workforce. IBISWorld forecasts the number of females in the labour force to hike by a compound annual rate of 2.5% through the end of 2024-25.