Structural racism behind 16% First Nations pay gap

First Nations workers earn 16% less per hour, with experience and qualifications not explaining the gap.

Indigenous workers face a 16 per cent hourly pay gap that persists after adjusting for age, experience, qualifications and hours worked, pointing to structural racism. Indigenous women earn an average of $41 per hour compared to $52 for all Australian men.

Researchers say the shortfall equals losing a lifetime of superannuation payments or working nearly two months a year unpaid. The report recommends strengthening the Racial Discrimination Act so employers actively prevent racial discrimination.

16 percent less per hour: Pay gap
19.5 percent among professionals: Largest gap by role
11.2 percent: Australia's gender pay gap

Why it mattersThe gap costs First Nations workers hundreds of thousands of dollars over their careers and affects retirement savings and financial security.

AustraliaAffects hundreds of thousands of Indigenous Australians across all job levels and regions, from labourers to professionals, widening wealth gaps in communities.

✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 13 h ago

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Geoscience Australia forms First Nations advisory committee

Geoscience Australia has appointed its first Indigenous advisory group. It will shape the agency's work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Why it mattersFederal agencies rarely give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples formal power to make decisions. This sets an example for others to follow. It gives First Nations communities real input on how their Country is studied and managed.