Policewomen's perceptions of gender equity policies and initiatives in Australia

This paper explores policewomen's perceptions of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) initiatives including breastfeeding rooms, part-time and flexible work arrangements, and gender quotas. Drawing on interviews with 18 Australian policewomen, our analysis reveals that while policewomen recognize that good initiatives and policies exist, when workers attempt to access them, they are often met with resistance and resentment. Policewomen express concerns about quotas, fearing that they might translate to a loss of respect and credibility for women workers. Our research aims to create a more nuanced understanding of how EEO policies are practiced within policing and considers possibilities for future policies.