Women in the spatial sciences
In November 2005, an analysis of membership statistics of the Spatial Sciences Institute indicated that only 8.5% of members were female, primarily under 35 years of age. This result was a key driver behind the SSI Women in Spatial Initiative, which aims to further investigate the status of women in the spatial industry as a whole.
An online survey was designed and disseminated throughout Australia, with responses received from women working in all areas of the spatial sciences. The survey collected primarily quantitative information, looking at such issues as entry to the profession, wages and education pathways. In many states the survey was followed up with a Women in Spatial forum, which focussed on collecting detailed qualitative information and discussing issues raised in the forums. The final results of both the surveys and the forums will be presented in this paper.
The initiative has been extremely successful in gaining a clearer picture of women in the SSI and the spatial industry in general, and has lead to follow up activities in several states. Key actions and outcomes of the final report will also be discussed in this paper.