The impact of institutional-political factors of employment equity : a comparative study of the policy framework in New Zealand and Australia : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Social Policy at Massey University

Abstract

This study addresses the question: to what extent does the development of employment equity for women rely upon direct government intervention in the labour market? Particular attention is given to how institutional arrangements and structural factors in New Zealand and Australia affect the achievement of employment equity. These factors include: the system of wage-fixing and negotiation of conditions; the human rights, equal pay and equal employment opportunity legislation; and the agencies that administer these policies. This research takes a comparative public policy approach, using official statistics and documentary analysis. The extent of employment equity is measured in terms of equal female and male labour force participation; the elimination of the earnings gap; and the reduction of occupational and industrial segregation. By making a comparison with the Australian situation, this research examines the proposition that the movement towards a deregulated labour market in New Zealand has inhibited the achievement of employment equity for women. The period covered is 1980-94. The study found that labour force participation rates increased for Australian women over the period 1987-94, while the labour force participation rate for New Zealand women fluctuated during this same period. Depending on the measure used, the earnings gap in New Zealand has slightly widened, or at the most, remained static since 1987. In Australia, male and female earnings continue to slowly converge. Ordinary time weekly earnings for Australian women and men are 6-8 percent closer together than is the case for their New Zealand counterparts. The total weekly earnings of Australian women and men are also approximately 6 percent closer than between New Zealand women and men. In Australia, any improvements have occurred under a centralised bargaining system, reflecting a greater level of government intervention in the labour market. In New Zealand, however, women's position in the labour market has slightly deteriorated over the period of deregulation and lack of employment equity policies. Women's position in the labour market is discussed critically in the light of the institutional and statutory differences of the two countries.