Position Statement on Advancing Gender Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Australian Healthcare Leadership

Women comprise approximately 75% of Australia’s healthcare workforce, yet remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Persistent structural and systemic barriers have limited progress, despite decades of awareness. The Partnership Centre for Gender Equity and Leadership Advancement, a Monash-led, NHMRC-funded initiative, brings together over 25 national partners to drive evidence-based, sector-wide change. This paper presents a unified position statement calling for renewed commitment to gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in healthcare leadership. It outlines the rationale, urgency, and strategic actions needed to protect recent gains and ensure Australia remains a global leader in inclusive, high-performing health systems.