So, where to from here?

While recent headlines might suggest that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs are under threat, our firsthand experiences with industry leaders indicate that the commitment to diverse hiring is unwavering. The challenge, however, lies in the supply of candidates. Talent NSW Managing Director Matthew Munson shares his perspective:

"Most corporates are keen to hire females into underrepresented areas such as engineering. The issue is that there simply aren't enough female candidates out there. Because of this scarcity, female developers can command a higher salary than their male counterparts with equivalent skills. The media and societal narratives often depict technical roles as male-dominated, reinforcing stereotypes which can be off-putting for women considering a career in the field. Additionally, the fact that STEM subjects tend to be less popular among women adds to the challenge.

It's interesting to note that historically, the situation was quite different. Women were the majority in programming roles until the 1960s, and the numbers were still significantly higher through the 70s and early 80s. To address the current imbalance, there needs to be a concerted effort from employers, educational institutions, and the government to promote the image of technical roles and make educational pathways more accessible. For instance, many technology jobs shouldn't require STEM qualifications. Technical roles offer tremendous benefits to all genders, including flexibility—many developer roles are still fully remote—high salaries, abundant career growth opportunities, and the chance to work on creative projects that solve real problems."

In a significant development, tech billionaire Robin Khuda has donated an impressive $100 million to the University of Sydney. This donation is set to fund a two-decade-long program aimed at addressing the underrepresentation of women in STEM studies and careers, representing one of the largest global investments in women in STEM.

Looking forward, it's evident that while there are obstacles to overcome, there are also substantial opportunities for progress. By steadfastly advocating for diversity and tackling the challenges that women face in the tech industry, we can cultivate a more inclusive and vibrant sector for all.