Australia politics live: Labor to reveal new immigration rules; PM hails narrowing of gender gap

Australia has broken into the top 10 of the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, ranking eighth out of 148 countries – its highest ranking ever.

The 2026 report marks a significant climb for Australia, moving up 35 places from 43rd since the Albanese government took office.

The government credits this historic high to improved political representation (including a majority-female cabinet), expanded paid parental leave, wage increases in female-dominated sectors and new investments in women’s health.