A Brunswick café has sparked controversy with a set of “house rules” aimed at highlighting the gender pay gap.

Handsome Her charges men an 18 per cent surcharge, which is optional, and gives priority seating to women.

It’s grabbed attention around the world and has Neil Mitchell concerned.

“You don’t fight discrimination with discrimination,” he said.

He spoke with author Catherine Fox, who said it had to be taken on face-value.

“The fact is it’s not mandatory,” she said.

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