Australia is on track to face an alarming increase in extreme heat, with projections indicating an average of 18 days of severe heatwaves annually by 2050. This is a significant rise from the current average of just four days. A recent report highlights that such a drastic change could lead to a staggering 444 percent increase in heatwave-related deaths in Sydney alone. This projected climate crisis poses a significant threat to the tourism, events, and hospitality sectors, which are crucial to Australia’s economy.
As these industries grapple with the implications of rising temperatures, research from Swinburne University proposes a potential solution: increasing the representation of women in leadership roles within hospitality and tourism organizations. Lead authors, Dr. Wahed Waheduzzaman and Dr. Nandana Wasantha Pathiranage, assert that female leaders are more likely to advocate for effective environmental policies and resource management, ultimately leading to lower emissions and enhanced innovation in addressing climate challenges.
Dr. Waheduzzaman emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, “Rising temperatures are not just a health tragedy; they pose a significant risk to tourism.” He elaborates that “on days when stepping outside could be deadly, people won’t be lining up for city tours or outdoor events.” His perspective highlights the need for proactive measures to safeguard tourism and hospitality from the impending climate crisis.
Research findings indicate that gender-diverse boards and executive teams are more likely to support green policies that improve carbon performance. Since January 2025, Australian businesses are required to disclose climate risks and mitigation strategies through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting. This mandate underscores the importance of effective leadership in navigating the challenges posed by climate change.
Dr. Waheduzzaman points out that female board members may respond more adeptly to climate risks due to their socialization and experiences, enabling them to plan more effectively for extreme weather events. The research team urges business owners, industry leaders, and government officials to monitor progress closely and leverage this situation as an opportunity to promote diversity within leadership roles.
“It’s imperative we respond to climate change and its irreversible impacts to protect vulnerable populations and ensure the sustainability of our businesses and economy,” Dr. Waheduzzaman remarks. He advocates for making leadership in affected sectors more gender-diverse as a crucial step that should receive widespread support.
As Australia faces these significant environmental challenges, the potential benefits of gender inclusion in leadership could play a crucial role in ensuring the resilience and adaptability of the tourism and hospitality sectors. By prioritizing diversity, businesses can not only address immediate climate risks but also position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly changing world.
