Australia has broken into the top 10 of the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, ranking eighth out of 148 countries – its highest ranking ever. The 2026 report marks a significant climb for Australia, moving up 35 places from 43rd since the Albanese government took office. The government credits this historic high to improved political representation (including a majority-female cabinet), expanded paid parental leave, wage increases in female-dominated sectors and new investments in women’s health.
Anthony Albanese said in a statement that the ranking “slipped to an all-time low of 50th under the previous Coalition government” and acknowledged that the work must continue: The job is not done and we will continue to focus our efforts on lifting wages, ending gender-based violence, increasing female representation in workplaces, investing in women’s health and more. The minister for women, Katy Gallagher, said the record ranking was “not by accident”, also recognising areas for improvement: We know there is more work to do across our priorities of ending violence against women, valuing care, improving women’s economic empowerment, improving women’s health outcomes and strengthening women’s leadership and representation – this is just one measure that shows Australia is moving in the right direction.
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