The sudden resignation of David Jones' CEO Mark McInnes over inappropriate behaviour towards a female staffer has been welcomed by MPs and industry leaders.
Mr McInnes will receive a $2 million payout after resigning, after admitting he acted inappropriately towards a woman employee at two work functions.
Australia's highest-ranked female politician, Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard, says she is passionate about making sure women are treated as equals.
Ms Gillard refused to be drawn on the McInnes case, saying she did not know the specifics, but says equality between the sexes was something that led her to politics.
"What I'm obviously very passionate about is we want to make sure every workplace, every part of our nation, every education institution is a good environment for everyone, a good environment for women free from any harassment or pressure," she said.
"So obviously that's our goal and the laws of Australia make sure that women cannot be discriminated against in their work place.
Her Liberal counterpart, Deputy Opposition Leader Julie Bishop, says Mr McInnes' resignation was appropriate given the circumstances.
"It's very disturbing," Ms Bishop told AAP in Sydney on Friday.
"It is important that employers maintain the highest standards of behaviour and conduct towards their employees, particularly female employees, and the act of resignation is obviously appropriate in these circumstances."
Australian Industry Group chief executive Heather Ridout says the news will damage David Jones' brand, as the majority of the company's staff and customers are women.
Ms Riddout lamented the loss of Mr McInnes, saying he had 'obvious talents'.
However, CEO of the National Retailers Association, Margy Osmond, says the issue is an internal one for David Jones, and that the vast majority of Australian retailers remain a good place for female employees to work.
Shares in David Jones fell three per cent following the announcement of Mr McInnes' resignation, before rebounding in afternoon trading.
David Jones chairman Robert Savage says the former chief executive officer would have been entitled to "several million dollars" had he received contractual entitlements on his abrupt departure from the company.
