These figures paint a stark picture of how women in Victoria, and Australia, lag far behind their male counterparts.

And it has a damaging effect. 

Gender inequality and retrograde attitudes towards women create a culture where family violence flourishes, says the state's Minister for Family Violence, Fiona Richardson.

So the state government wants to develop a gender equality strategy for Victoria, and is calling for public input.

"The link is clear. Societies with greater gender equality have lower levels of violence against women," says Ms Richardson.

Are there any countries that have achieved gender equality? The short answer is no.

But all of the Nordic countries, with the exception of Denmark, have closed over 80 per cent of the gender gap and serve as useful benchmarks for comparison, according to national anti-violence campaigners Our Watch.

Without economic independence, women find it difficult to leave violent relationships.

How do we make it easier for women to work and earn an income? And get paid properly when they do?

Because just finding a job isn't enough.

There are other ways to support women when they start working.

Like affordable, good-quality childcare and flexible or part-time work. Generous parental leave that can be used by either parent would also encourage men to play a more active role in bringing up children.

Perhaps one day, there will be equal number of women and men in employment, on boards, heading up companies and in parliament.

Until then, do we need a gender equality strategy? You can tell the government what you think.

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