A recent survey reveals that nearly 40% of women are contemplating leaving their jobs, particularly among mid-career and senior professionals.

The Women in Media Industry Insight Report 2025, released on June 5, 2025, highlights significant challenges faced by women in the media sector, with 59% expressing dissatisfaction in their roles.

Financial pressures and stagnant growth are major factors driving women out of the industry, with 29% citing pay as their primary concern.

Petra Buchanan, the report's lead author, has called on media employers to take proactive measures to address workplace issues, including closing the gender pay gap and implementing meaningful reforms.

Buchanan emphasized a disconnect between the industry's stated commitment to gender equality and the actual experiences of female employees, who feel these efforts are not reflected in their workplaces.

Key barriers to career advancement for women in media include a lack of promotional opportunities and insufficient managerial support.

Approximately 80% of women reported no meaningful improvement in workplace culture or safety.

Despite legal reforms aimed at increasing transparency regarding gender pay gaps, 74% of women report that their employers have not effectively addressed pay disparities.

The average gender pay gap in the media industry is currently 10%, with publishing showing a gap of 16.4% and broadcasting at 11.8%.

Women make up 41% of the media workforce, yet they occupy only 23% of chief executive and managing director positions, underscoring significant structural imbalances.

Buchanan urged Australian media organizations to reaffirm their commitment to gender equality and take decisive action rather than retreating from these goals.