Gender Disparities in Australian Science News Coverage
Recent research highlights a persistent issue in Australian science news coverage: expert voices are still predominantly male, despite a relatively even gender distribution among journalists themselves. A study analyzing print and online science news from 2018 to 2022 revealed an increase in the number of female journalists writing about science. Additionally, the proportion of women quoted in science news has risen from 20% to 45%, according to the findings.
However, the data also shows a clear pattern in the relationship between the gender of journalists and their sources. Male journalists tend to quote male experts more frequently, while female journalists are more likely to cite female experts. This trend aligns with earlier studies that have documented similar patterns.
Interestingly, men remain significantly overrepresented in science news, accounting for 76% of the experts quoted in the sample. This is particularly notable in fields such as health and environmental studies, which are traditionally dominated by women. The underrepresentation of women in these areas raises important questions about how expertise is perceived and who is considered a credible voice in scientific discourse.
Why Representation Matters
In Australia, women make up only 31% of researchers in science, technology, engineering, and medicine (STEM). Systemic barriers that prevent women and girls from pursuing STEM studies and careers have been widely studied and well-documented. These barriers include societal expectations, lack of mentorship, and institutional biases that persist in both education and professional settings.
The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of who “does” science or is recognized as an expert. This influence can reinforce stereotypes and limit the visibility of women in scientific fields. The under-representation of women in STEM is not unique to media coverage; previous research has also shown that female scientists are often excluded from Australian science curricula across all states and territories.
Moreover, women are underrepresented in organizations that shape policy change and national scientific agendas. This lack of diversity at the decision-making level further perpetuates the marginalization of women in science.
Challenges in the News Cycle
One of the main challenges in achieving greater gender balance in science news is the fast-paced nature of the news cycle. Journalists often rely on familiar sources who are easy to contact, and these voices are historically and predominantly male. This creates a feedback loop where the same experts are repeatedly quoted, limiting opportunities for new and diverse perspectives.
While institutional barriers contribute to this imbalance, individual actions can also play a significant role. Those who are frequently called upon to speak to the media have a responsibility to champion new and diverse voices when opportunities arise. Including a wider range of perspectives in science reporting is a simple but effective way to challenge stereotypes and address systemic barriers.
A Global Issue
The issue of gender representation in science is not confined to Australia. It is part of a broader global conversation about equality and the recognition of women’s contributions to science. This week, one of the largest gender equality conferences in the world arrives in Melbourne, bringing together world leaders, activists, and others to discuss and challenge deepening inequalities.
The conference takes place at a critical moment, as movements against women’s rights continue to gain momentum. In countries with right-wing governments, such as Brazil and Hungary, there has been a stagnation in the number of women entering STEM fields due to policies that oppose diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. A similar trend has been observed in the United States.
Without active opposition, the devaluing of women and diversity in STEM may become a new status quo. Media has a key role to play in shaping who society sees as experts. By featuring more women as experts in science stories, the media can take a small but meaningful step toward addressing systemic inequities against women in science and in society.
