2X's current initiative is to transform the Australian WGEA into a full service Commission
2X Coworking’s ultimate mission is to support Australia’s working women to claim their full worth.
Since Australia’s peak body for equality for working women is the Workplace Gender Equality Agency WGEA) , 2X has identified the possibilities presented by having the Agency upgraded to a full service Commission.
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Transforming the WGEA into a full-service commission is a critical investment in gender equality and economic growth. By increasing funding and empowering the agency to enforce change, Australia can build a more equitable workplace for all women while addressing systemic barriers that have persisted for decades.
To support this, we have created a separate, not-for-profit organisation, “Parity Plus” that cheekily suggests that Australian women should ask for 20% more, after decades of being short-changed in terms of pay & perks, working conditions, and career development that have been offered to our male coworkers!
Key Initiative
Upgrading to a Full-Service Australian Gender Equality Commission
To overcome these limitations, WGEA should be expanded into a full-service Australian Gender Equality Commission, with enforcement powers, broader coverage, and increased funding. Drawing inspiration from the former Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), which was funded at approximately $34 million annually to regulate 1.1 million workers in the construction industry, a gender equality commission serving the 6.4 million Australian working women should receive proportionate funding—approximately $200 million annually.
Lobbying to Transform WGEA into an Australian Gender Equality Commission
The campaign to upgrade the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) into a full-service Australian Gender Equality Commission (AGEC) demands strategic lobbying, partnerships with women's and social justice organizations, and innovative tactics inspired by global movements. This proposal outlines a multi-faceted approach to secure political and public support for this transformation.
Lobbying Politicians for Change
Lobbying government officials and policymakers is central to achieving legislative change. Building strong, targeted campaigns ensures the transformation of WGEA is a priority in the political arena.
Tailored Messaging for Politicians
Frame the AGEC upgrade as a solution to persistent issues like pay gaps, gender-based violence, and workplace inequality. Tie the issue to the electorate’s concerns, such as job security, family well-being, and economic fairness.
Partnering with Women-Focused and Social Justice Organizations
Collaboration with other organizations can amplify the campaign’s reach and credibility. Women’s groups and broader social justice organizations can bring additional resources, networks, and expertise to the effort.
Joint Campaigns and Events
Host joint rallies, panel discussions, and online campaigns to highlight the shared goals of partner organizations. Cross-promote initiatives through newsletters, social media, and advocacy events to maximize outreach.
Disruptive and Low-Cost Tactics Inspired by Social Justice Movements
Disruptive and symbolic actions can capture public attention and increase pressure on decision-makers. Drawing inspiration from historic and contemporary movements ensures a dynamic and impactful campaign
Building Public Support
Public opinion is a powerful tool for influencing policymakers. Engaging citizens across demographics ensures the campaign gains widespread momentum.
The 3.5% Rule in Action
The movement should track participation metrics and aim to mobilize approximately 900,000 Australians in some capacity. Whether through small, symbolic acts or larger demonstrations, meeting this threshold could render the campaign unstoppable.
The Importance of Public Support
Public opinion is a powerful force for influencing policymakers and driving systemic change. Building widespread awareness and encouraging meaningful participation ensures that the campaign to transform the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) into a full-service Australian Gender Equality Commission (AGEC) becomes an unstoppable movement.
The key learning from the BBC article It Only Takes 3.5% of People to Change the World is that nonviolent movements succeed when at least 3.5% of the population takes sustained, meaningful action. In the Australian context, this translates to approximately 900,000 people actively engaging in the cause.
While this might seem ambitious, , it underscores that profound societal shifts don’t require majority participation—just a committed minority actively working for change. A core group of dedicated individuals can shift societal norms and influence policymakers. By offering diverse ways for people to contribute, the campaign can engage Australians across all demographics and capacity levels.
This insight emphasizes the importance of engagement in sustained, nonviolent action. Movements like March 4 Justice have already demonstrated the power of mobilizing tens of thousands. Expanding this momentum to reach 3.5% through a broad range of participation levels—ranging from attending protests to engaging in smaller, ongoing actions—could render the push for a Gender Equality Commission unstoppable.