decent work

Companies that respect basic rights, promote job security, freedom from discrimination and provide fair and equal wages may perform better over the long-term.

why we do this

Insecure and precarious work can have detrimental consequences including lower consumer confidence, reduced long-term productivity growth, rising social security costs and reduced tax revenues. These present risks to sustained economic growth and investment portfolio performance.

Female dominated sectors are disproportionately effected by casual and precarious work, which is particularly important for HESTA members — 80% of whom are women.

Provision of decent jobs, equal opportunity and employee engagement can increase company productivity and innovation, contributing to strong long-term company value and economic prosperity.

how we do this

Through our active ownership program, HESTA encourages Australian companies to provide more secure jobs with appropriate working conditions and rights, including promoting employee physical and mental safety and wellbeing.

Modern slavery statement

HESTA is a reporting entity under the Australian Federal Government Modern Slavery Act 2018. Our Modern Slavery Statements outline HESTA’s approach to assessing and addressing modern slavery risks in our operations and supply chain.

FY 2023 Modern Slavery Statement (pdf)

FY 2022 Modern Slavery Statement (pdf)

FY 2021 Modern Slavery Statement (pdf)

FY 2020 Modern Slavery Statement (pdf)

Case study: Workplace culture in the Australian mining sector

HESTA completed an engagement series with Australian mining companies about workplace culture. Unaddressed workplace harassment can create legal and financial risks, and significantly damage a company’s social licence to operate, which can impact the value of our investment and, therefore, the returns we generate for members.

We are pleased to present to you our report that provides key insights into the engagement series.

Workplace harassment in the Australian mining sector >

Decent Work in Australia - report

Decent work underpins a sustainable and inclusive economy and the quality of the lives of all working Australians. Companies that respect basic rights, promote job security, freedom from discrimination and provide fair and equal wages may perform better over the long-term and support our ability to deliver strong, long-term returns to HESTA members.

HESTA commissioned BankWest Curtin Economics Centre (BCEC) to undertake research into the trends of decent work in Australia over time, how dimensions of decent work have contributed to these trends, and how decent work varies by demographics and industry.

We have co-published the findings of this research to assist stakeholders in better understanding how the dimensions of decent work can benefit companies and investors alike.

Download the report (pdf)

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Facing the future with confidence

We use our deep understanding of our members to design information, tools and support to make a meaningful impact on their confidence about the future.

Facing the future with confidence >