Might have read the stats with a pich of salt. The statement s valid only when comparing apples with apples.

many jobs, especially in govt have standard pay scales, so there is no gender bias 

i know when I interviewed candidates for positions, we had a salary scale approved by HR, with tolerances, to adjust for an individuals qualifications and experience.

The candidates ability to negotiate also plays a big part.

And we mustn't forget that 'that' average weekly wage includes the pollies' and other public servants .... most folks wouldn't be taking home more than $700

healthcare and social services ($899), administration ($848) and arts ($689).

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/executive-style/blue-collar-wages-put-graduates-in-shade-20120501-1xxa4.html#ixzz2cHbIIf9N
The female dominance in retail and hospitality, and the casual and part-time nature of these sectors, only marginally explains why NSW - the state with the highest female participation rate - had the lowest growth since 1996, reaching $1016, a rise of 70 per cent. NSW men earned $1200 a week as at last November and women $824.
Wages in Western Australia doubled over the same period. Fifteen years ago, NSW workers earned an average $49 a week more than West Australians; now NSW trails the west by an average $76.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/executive-style/blue-collar-wages-put-graduates-in-shade-20120501-1xxa4.html#ixzz2cHbTNOhP

Disgusting is what i say,really terrible! But you know what,dont you just love it if your a bloke! lol lol ha ha ha

This also takes into account the earnings of miners who's living and travel arrangements are included in their salary

Thanks for bringing that to our attention kika :)

Just shows what a sexist society we still live in.