Female participation in the AU ICT industry (2010 stats)

In doing research for a diversity case study, I came across an IBSA report on the Australian ICT industry.  The female participation rate in the ICT industry was noted in the 2010 report at 29 percent, while female participation in all industries averages 45.3 percent.

Segments within the sector where females are between 30 percent to 50 percent include:

• Graphic web design and illustrators
• Management and organisational analysis
• Electronic engineering draftpersons and technicians

Two segments that where females have a higher representation than men include:

• ICT trainers; and
• Other information and organisation professionals

I currently have a greater proportion of female to male managers, while applications for developers reflects the ICT averages noted above.  As one who participates in the recruitment process, I ask whether the issue of equality is about availability, opportunity, and/or structure of our society.

Is it a matter of making the industry more attractive or more accessible to females looking for their future career? I’ll add more thoughts after my assignment.

I would be interested in your input in the interim…