Australian Pork Limited (APL) has launched new commitments to bolster female-driven careers in the pork and wider meat industry, following a Women in Pork online forum that identified key priorities relating to gender inclusivity for the industry.

A survey of the 90 industry participants found that 60 per cent of women working in the pork sector agree the biggest challenge they face is feeling accepted and being taken seriously in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

They also put forward their key priorities for women working in the sector:

• 45% determined creating visibility of women in the industry was most important
• 30% identify mentoring the next generation as a priority
• 10% said the industry needed more opportunities for diversity and inclusion.

Over 70 per cent of participants wanted to connect with other women in the industry in future, showing a willingness to work together and change things moving forward.


To help combat the inequality felt within the pork industry, APL CEO Margo Andrae announced five key commitments to help bolster female-driven careers in the pork and wider meat industry.

APL committed to:

  1. Reviewing the business’ maternity and paternity policy, and continue to foster a more flexible work environment
  2. Registering at least four senior members to the Meat Business Women (MBW) Global Mentoring Program in 2021
  3. Putting Diversity and Inclusion on the agenda at key sector events, including APL’s Delegates Forum
  4. Continuing visibility of woman in pork across the supply chain on all APL’s communications channel
  5. Support MBW and territory partner, the Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) , to create more inclusive networking opportunities, providing a platform for woman in the industry to connect.

“More and more women are choosing to work in the meat industry, which is why we have announced these pivotal commitments to support them on their journey. It something I am personally proud of,” Ms Andrae said.


The forum heard from Meat Business Woman Founder Laura Ryan, who tapped into the findings of their Gender Representation in the Meat Industry report, released in late 2020.


“Our research findings suggest that when it comes to inclusion the meat sector lags behind many other sectors, with only 36% of the workforce being women, worldwide.” Ms Laura Ryan stated.


However, this isn’t to say that APL is starting from scratch or resting on its laurels. APL already has a ratio of around 75% female staff, and pledges to support their career paths and listen to their voices.

“It was great to see women across the supply chain tell their story, showcasing the different jobs women can hold in the industry,” Ms Andrae said.


“We’re proud of how far we’ve come, but there is more progress to be made. We will continue to empower women, helping them not only navigate the industry, but thrive in it.”


To find out more about the industry and job opportunities, visit www.australianpork.com.au