Men and Inclusive Workplace Practices: One-size Doesn’t Fit All

Most men aren’t opposed to gender equity. Yet despite good intentions across Australian workplaces, progress is stalling — and the reasons why are more nuanced than the conversation usually allows.

This research surveyed 241 employed Australian men to understand how hostile sexist beliefs shape support for four key workplace initiatives: gender quotas, pay equity, equal parental leave, and flexible work. The findings reveal that resistance isn’t uniform — it shifts by generation, career stage, industry, and life experience. For organisations serious about inclusion, that distinction changes everything.