The Evolution of Occupational Gender Segregation in Australia: Measurement and Interpretation

In this paper, we build on earlier work (Watts and Rich, 1991, 1992a) and examine the conceptual and measurement issues associated with documenting trends in occupational segregation in Australia over the period 1986-2002. Some specific issues will be addressed, including: Is the rate of gender integration still pro-cyclical? Has gender stereotyping diminished in the atypical occupations? Have women crowded into occupations that were previously male dominated, so that resegregation has occurred? What has been the impact on gender segregation of the continued growth of part-time employment? What role can legislation play in promoting occupational gender integration?