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Your role as an employee

1. Self-check

Ask yourself if you are demonstrating gender-inclusive behaviours? Do you judge your co-workers, even inadvertently, when they use flexible work arrangements?

2. Communicate

Your leaders can't fix something if they don't know it is a problem. Look for mechanisms to voice your perspective on how gender equality is tracking in your agency. Perhaps you had a flexible work request denied without an explanation. Perhaps you witnessed a co-worker miss out on a development opportunity that was extended to everyone else. Report professionally and respectfully to your agency's gender champion or human resources area.

3. Be fair

Remember that you are part of a larger organisation that is made up of many work teams and many competing priorities. Be mindful of the broader context when requesting flexible work arrangements and be open-minded and ready to consider all alternatives.

4. Be responsible

If you are working flexibly or part time, be sure to put in place measures that help the team function when you are not available. Make sure people know of your hours and who is to be contacted in your absence. Ensure you leave clear directions in place for people who are to pick up where you left off.

5. Sign up

Find out what networks or communities of practice exist in your agency and join in. Remember you don't have to be a woman to belong to a women's network – many groups encourage men to join with them as advocates for gender equality. Look for gaps and see how you can help—perhaps you could start a carers' group that welcomes men and women.

6. Set an example

If you are a man with caring responsibilities, let them be seen. Don't hide leaving early to pick your children up or taking a loved one to the doctor. The more men are visible in their caring, the more it becomes normalised for both men and women.

7. Mentor

You don't have to be a certain age or classification to become a mentor. Women and men at all levels can help each other out. Whether you share tips on a subject, introduce a co-worker into a network that may provide them opportunities down the track or simply lend an ear, there are many ways people can benefit from your experience.