CA ANZ reports some progress on DEI but gaps remain

The latest edition of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand’s (CA ANZ’s) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Survey Report has confirmed the significant progress made in the last four years particularly towards its inclusion goal, but highlighted several challenges that remain.

According to the survey, reports of discriminatory behaviour had declined at the same time as 13 per cent of women and five per cent of men reported experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace in the last five years.

“While the survey findings reflect broader and persistent societal issues, the data makes it clear why we must continue to focus on addressing these negative behaviours, regardless of who they are directed to, within our own profession,” CEO of Chartered Accountants ANZ, Ainslie van Onselen, said.

“First and foremost, to prevent harm being done to people, but to also ensure our profession is safe and inclusive, so it can appeal to a broad pool of talent.

“With women representing 51% of our provisional members (people progressing through the CA program) compared to 43% of full members, it is clear that the demographic sands of the profession are shifting.

“Therefore, it is imperative for us to collectively address the issues facing women if we are to retain and develop key talent within the profession.”

van Onselen also confirmed that 75 per cent of respondents agreed their organisation “values diversity of thinking, background and experience” and has committed to promoting an “inclusive workplace culture”.

“We also found that employees who feel they belong and are valued report higher levels of job satisfaction, proving that inclusion is good for people and good for business,” she said.

“Reports of most forms of workplace discrimination have also decreased overall since 2021, but an ongoing area of concern is ageism.

“Although ageism is more commonly reported by older respondents, there has been a spike in younger people reporting they have experienced it, particularly in Australia where 18% of women aged 18-34 say they have experienced it.”

The report also indicated that CA ANZ’s current membership spread across certain ethnic groups was “underrepresented” compared to the general population, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members in Australia (0.44 per cent), and Māori (3.31 per cent) and Pasifika (1.78 per cent) members in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“These numbers confirm our decision to include supporting and attracting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Māori and Pasifika talent to our profession as a key initiative in our new organisational strategy for the next three to five years,” van Onselen said.

“We will do this through partnerships, advocacy and culturally informed education focused on supporting and empowering a new generation of Chartered Accountants.

“I’m also encouraged to see nearly 60% of the survey respondents supported CA ANZ to prioritise at least one diversity, equity and inclusion initiative. Education, advocacy, and practical tools were the most supported areas.

“Notably, support is strongest among women who represent 45% of our members, and younger respondents who represent the future of our profession, reminding us that our future depends on creating a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

“Given our strategic aspiration to be a magnet for diverse talent, CA ANZ will continue to incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives alongside key technical competencies.”