Women on top NFP boards at 30 per cent

1 May 2008
MEDIA RELEASE

The number of female directors on Australia’s largest not-for-profit boards is close to 30 per cent, according to a recent survey by Women on Boards.

This figure compares with eight per cent of female directors on top 200 ASX listed companies (WOB research at December 2007) and an estimated 40 per cent on State and Federal Government entities.

Ruth Medd, Chair of Women on Boards, said it is was worth noting that if all Australia’s not-for-profit entities (approx. 750,000) were included the percentage of female directors would be closer to 75 per cent.

"The obvious message being that women tend to find it harder to get a seat on the board of companies with larger turnovers – even in the not-for-profit sector,” Ms Medd said.

"Women on Boards also found that 24 per cent of not for profit organizations with an ASX200 director had women on the board.”

Ms Medd said the research added to the knowledge about the not-for-profit sector, which employs seven per cent (600,000) of the Australian workforce and represents six per cent of the nation’s GDP.

She added that not-for-profit boards are a good choice for women (and men) looking for a starter board, but the choice should be based on an interest in the work of the organisation.

"Many not for profits operate on sound commercial principles and Women on Boards sees this trend continuing. The need for well credentialed directors with good commercial skills will therefore increase.”

“A professional approach to governance and director selection continues to be an issue. With an estimated 3,500 not-for-profits employing 20 plus staff delivering Government and other programs and fundraising for their cause, the sector is becoming very competitive. Only the best will survive as the sector inevitably consolidates.”

For interviews or comments call Ruth Medd on 02 9331 8851 or 0419 407 231.

(The top200 charities list was sourced from BRW on 29 June 2006. The information about the charities of ASX200 directors was sourced from annual reports of ASX 200 companies.  Additional WOB research looked at the composition of the boards.)

Click Here to access the research data.
Note: You will need to be a WOB Subscriber to access the data.