Following the launch of Bauer Media’s Female Futures initiative last month, the publisher has today released research results on equality, in time for International Women’s Day.

The results of the survey, conducted by Bauer Media show there was a near consensus that what Australian women want is equality for all, not just for women. The findings also revealed that 73 per cent of women believe there are not enough women in senior roles, however only 40 per cent  believe there should be quotas for female directors.

Anna Preston (main photo), Bauer Media’s national strategy and insights manager said, “Women want a world where people are judged simply as people – based on their personality, actions and accomplishments and nothing else. The world of true equality is also one where men can freely show emotion, more women and men work in non-traditional roles and where partners can choose who stays at home or is home more to care for the family”.

In addition to new perspectives on societal and equality issues, the Bauer Media research reveals a list of international role models, which demonstrates a push towards diversity across age, culture and sexual preference. The most inspirational international role models are revealed as Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Malala Yousafzal, and Kate Middleton.

The survey release coincides with a number of female-led activations from the Bauer brands taking place this week. Bauer’s Park Street premises will celebrate International Woman’s Day with a consumer activation via Woman’s Day. The brand will take over the iconic Park St premises granting acts of kindness to passers-by.

Today also sees Cosmopolitan editor Keshnee Kemp host an IWD lunch, attended by female leaders across business, sport and media.

“It’s a privilege to be able to celebrate International Women’s Day with such gusto,” said Fiorella Di Santo – general manager food, fashion, luxury and homes. “Bauer brands hold a deep understanding of female audiences in Australia, and we pride ourselves on bringing female-led conversations to the table. Bauer is deeply committed to driving a better and more equal future for women. A better future for women, is a better future for everyone”

IWD activity and the survey are continuations of Bauer Media’s wider brand purpose around Female Futures. Launching last month with a powerful trend forecast presentation in Sydney, Female Futures incorporates Bauer’s corporate promise to publish 10 million words – about women, by women – by 2019 across its portfolio of print and digital platforms.