Women in the Information Technology Industry: A Western Australian View

Abstract

The information technology [IT] industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, both here in Australia and globally. This paper is an exploratory study of aspects of women’s status in the IT industry in Western Australia. What is apparent from this initial study is that the shortage of skilled personnel in WA mirrors the declining trend in the representation of women in the IT industry. This industry, once thought of as a gender neutral profession is still dominated by men. This preliminary study suggests that even though the IT industry does not exclude women, it does little to promote or employ them and the old corporate 'boys club' syndrome continues to perpetuate.