New research from RMIT University has revealed why women are significantly under-represented in Australia’s cyber security workforce and why many leave the sector within just a few years.
This research builds on the 2023 Gender Dimensions of the Australian Cyber Security Sector report, which highlighted that women account for only 17% of the industry’s workforce and tend to leave after 4 years on average.
The researchers interviewed women with 5+ years of cyber security experience, including some who had recently left the sector. Through these interviews, several pervasive barriers for women were identified.
Barriers in the Cyber Security Industry
The study found that women in cyber security are often relegated to administrative roles, which are lower paid compared to technical and leadership positions. A demanding 24/7 work culture was outlined as one of the reasons for this, as poor work-life balance is a significant barrier for women with domestic or caregiving responsibilities.
Limited support for women returning from maternity leave exacerbates these challenges. Female participants highlighted pay inequities, gendered barriers to career advancement, and experiences of micro-aggressions, bullying, and harassment. Each of these factors are contributors to self-doubt and dissatisfaction, leading many to leave the male-dominated sector.
Proposed Solutions
The study found women largely oppose gender quotas, as they believe these measures could undermine perceptions of competence. The participants instead suggested greater workplace flexibility, improved job design, and access to mentoring and professional development opportunities. Promoting interest in cyber security among school-aged girls was also seen as key to breaking down stereotypes early.
Recommendations include gender inclusivity training, pay gap audits, and greater transparency around gender equality metrics. The study urges workplaces to review hiring practices, implement mentoring programs, and redesign jobs to allow for flexible work arrangements.
Driving Change
Study co-lead Associate Professor Lauren Gurrieri stressed the need for systemic change: “The focus must shift from expecting women to adapt to a biased system to addressing the cultural and structural issues that hinder inclusion.”
With 14 actionable recommendations, the study highlights a roadmap for organisations and policymakers to improve recruitment and retention, creating a more equitable cyber security workforce.
You can read the full RMIT report, Gender Dimensions in the Australian Security Industry, here.
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