1985
By 1985, AWLA grew to 160 members and were addressing issues such as sexual harassment, new birth technologies, providing legal assistance in objections to the Springbok Tour, and insurance exclusions, while supporting women’s advancement in the legal profession.
1989
A second Working Party reviewed the ADLS’s 1981 report on women in law, highlighting ongoing issues such as childcare and pay disparities. AWLA criticised the slow progress in addressing concerns on the front page of the NZ Herald called for urgent reform.
Profile: Shayne Mathieson
2015
AWLA launched AUT’s report on barriers to women’s career progression in law firms, emphasising structural issues, family responsibilities, and the need for flexible work practices.
2018
AWLA supported #metoo and #timesup, supported Pay Equity Coalition Auckland’s submissions on the Equal Pay Amendment Bill, hosted events on sexual harassment and work-life balance.
2019
AWLA submitted on the Abortion Legislation Bill, advocating for inclusive language, safe access, removing gestational limits and removing a medical practitioner’s ability to object on moral grounds. AWLA wrote to NZLS raising concerns over the questions asked in interviews for candidates applying to practise on their own account.
2021
AWLA launched a women’s partnership promotion tracker, advocated for automatic safe areas around abortion facilities, submitted on digital communication laws, and hosted events on career development and court accessibility.