National review into work conditions & discrimination for pregnant and parent workers in Australia

Abstract

Pregnant and parent workers represent a substantial proportion of the workforce. Previous research has shown that these workers experience high levels of workplace discrimination, which can lead to adverse effects on mental health. There is a pressing need for up-to-date evidence regarding the specific types of self-perceived discrimination, disadvantage, and bias encountered by pregnant and parent workers. As such, this paper presents findings from a national study of 1048 workers across Australia who completed a comprehensive online survey. Overall, 89% of respondents reported experiencing work-related self-perceived discrimination, disadvantage and/or bias during pregnancy, 84.7% during parental leave and 91.8% during their return-to-work phase. Analysis revealed high prevalence rates for various forms of self-perceived discrimination, disadvantage and bias pertaining to aspects such as—but not limited to—accessing leave entitlements, breastfeeding facilities, and career progression opportunities. Future research must prioritise understanding the disconnect and de-coupling between Australian anti-discrimination legislation, workplace action (i.e., policy implementation) and these reported experiences from pregnant and parent workers; with respect to the underlying factors that open and sustain this disconnect. Exploring the conditions that have contributed to this disconnection is critical for ensuring worker safety during pregnancy and parenting.