Advocacy & Impact | Chief Executive Women
CEW member in thoughtful discussion at an event

Accelerate gender equality by 2030

We leverage CEW's unique leadership, evidence-base and collective influence to shape public policy, corporate practice, and cultural norms that advance women's leadership, safety and economic security.

Our policy priorities

Chief Executive Women focuses its advocacy on four interconnected priorities that will drive transformative change for women across Australia.

Women collaborating in a leadership setting

Advancing women's leadership

Breaking down barriers to ensure women reach their full potential in leadership roles across all sectors. We drive systemic change through board diversity, executive pipeline development, and inclusive workplace cultures.

Women leaders engaged in conversation at a CEW event

Strengthening women's economic security

Closing the gender pay gap, advancing superannuation equity, and creating economic pathways that enable women to build financial independence and prosperity throughout their careers and into retirement.

Panel discussion at a CEW advocacy event

Ending violence against women

Championing workplace responses, policy reform, and cultural change to prevent and address gender-based violence. We work with business leaders to create safer workplaces and communities for all women.

Women in a professional setting representing care and community

Placing care at the centre of the economy

Recognising care as essential economic infrastructure. We advocate for accessible, affordable childcare and aged care, valuing care workers, and creating flexible workplace policies that support caregiving responsibilities.

Our impact & recent wins

CEW has a strong record of influencing public policy and contributing to significant national reforms.

New legislated WGEA gender equality targets

New legislated Workplace Gender Equality Act requirements for large employers to set gender equality targets, driving greater accountability and transparency across corporate Australia.

Gender pay gap at record low

Continued advocacy for pay transparency and accountability has contributed to Australia's national gender pay gap falling to a record low, advancing economic security for women.

Landmark investment in early childhood education

Landmark government investments in early childhood education and care, including a 15% pay rise for early childhood educators, align with CEW's policy recommendations to support workforce participation and economic equality.

Evidence-based advocacy

Our research and submissions shape policy debates and drive corporate accountability.

Investing in Women's Leadership and Workforce Participation as an Economic Imperative

2026 Pre-Budget Submission

CEW's submission to the Federal Government calling for investment in women's leadership, economic security, addressing violence, and placing care at the centre of the economy.

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CEW Senior Executive Census 2025

Senior Executive Census 2025

CEW's ninth annual census tracking women's representation in Executive Leadership Teams across ASX 300 companies, revealing critical insights about the pipeline problem.

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Unlocking Leadership: Gender and Race

Unlocking Leadership

Conversations on Gender and Race in Corporate Australia, examining the intersectional barriers to leadership and calling for diverse, inclusive pathways to executive roles.

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How we drive change

CEW's advocacy is powered by three core strengths that make us uniquely positioned to drive systemic change.

Leadership & influence

1,400+ members overseeing $749B in revenue bring unmatched credibility and reach to shape policy and corporate practice.

Evidence-based research

Rigorous research, data-driven insights, and compelling business cases that build consensus for change.

Collective action

Mobilising business leaders, government, and community partners to create momentum for sustainable reform.

Join us in accelerating gender equality

Whether you're a business leader, policy maker, or advocate for change, there are many ways to engage with CEW's advocacy work.

Become a member

Join Australia's most influential network of women leaders

Learn about membership

Partner with us

Collaborate on advocacy campaigns and policy initiatives

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Stay informed

Subscribe to our advocacy updates and policy insights

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Contact our team

Get in touch with CEW's advocacy team

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. CEW celebrates the diversity of First Nations people and their continuing connection to land, water, and community, and acknowledges the strength of First Nations women leading their communities. We extend that respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are part of the CEW community.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website contains images or names of people who have passed away.