As a result of Athena Swan’s data-centric approach to achieving equity, diversity and inclusion, SAGE subscribers have gathered vast amounts of gender-disaggregated data. We know that these data are essential for locating sources of gender inequity, but can they also help us predict future gender gaps (or lack thereof) in the higher education and research sector?

Professor Lisa Kewley (Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence in All-Sky Astrophysics in 3D, ASTRO 3D) says yes, they can! She presents an evidence-based Monte Carlo model that can reproduce and explain the current gender disparities in Australian STEM academia. These models show that the gender gap for Levels B to E can be closed within 12 to 15 years through initiatives such as 50:50 hiring, a goal of 50:50 departures, and equal retirements.

Mei Leow, SAGE intern, also shares some trends and insights from her analysis of recruitment and promotion data in SAGE Athena Swan Bronze applications.