In conclusion, this study provides empirical evidence that management of the large international accounting firms are not only perpetuating economic and social injustice for women, but are also squandering women’s talents and efforts, representing half of society’s workforce. If the “boys’ club culture” continues in the large accounting firms, women
will show their dissatisfaction by leaving for environments that are less discriminatory and provide a work and family balance. A recent Australian study found that a growing number of women were opting out of positions in corporations to start their own businesses.Women found it difficult to progress in a male-dominated environment because of a lack
of easy access to informal “boys’ networks”, a shortage of appropriate networks, a lack of workplace flexibility, poor job design and an inability to navigate the political maze. In Australia, 31% of self-employed people were now women, up from 20% in 1996 (Adam,2004).