About Pay Equity What does ‘equal value’ mean?

‘Work of equal value’ means work that carries the same value when measured objectively. It does not have to be the same type of work to have the same objective value. Value is determined by objectively appraising the components of value in the job.

How can ‘equal value’ be assessed?
Equal value can be assessed through describing, analysing and evaluating the work required by a job. It is necessary to assess the demands of different jobs in order to determine which jobs are of equal value. Once evaluated, the jobs with similar demands can be compared for any pay differences between male and female workers.

There are many different approaches to assessing work value, and often several are needed as most systems have both strengths and weaknesses. For example, jobs might be considered in terms of the required competency levels and/or qualification levels, demands on workers (including physical and social working conditions), grading systems and points/factor job evaluation schemes, among others. The essential criterion is whether the approach/es being used fully describe, analyse and properly evaluate the components of value in the work. A system of comparison and assessment is often necessary because men and women commonly do different jobs, often in different industries. Women predominate in industry sectors such as retail and personal services, where the remuneration is generally lower than in male-dominated industries such as manufacturing or construction.

For more information see AMP's Success Story.

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