Employer of Choice for Gender Equality

Friday, 14 November 2014

UON has again been recognised as a national leader in gender equality with a sought-after citation from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency.

Employer of Choice for Gender EqualityThis week, it was announced that the University of Newcastle was one of just 76 organisations in Australia – and only 11 universities - to receive a citation as a 2014 Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (EOCGE).

The inaugural citations, announced today, recognise organisations that have demonstrated an active commitment to gender equality in the workplace with a focus on removing the structural and cultural barriers that prevent the full participation of women at work.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Caroline McMillen, said the University was extremely proud of its strong track record in gender equity and its commitment to creating a workplace where all staff can achieve remarkable and rewarding careers.

"The University is delighted to achieve a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation, acknowledging UON as a national role model for innovation and best practice on issues of workplace gender equality," Professor McMillen said.

The University's Academic Women in Leadership (AWiL) program has supported more than 100 women to achieve success as leaders. The program provides senior female academics with opportunities to further develop their leadership skills, and to foster individual talents and leadership style.

"Consistent with our NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013-15, we are building the capacity of our female staff and working towards equal representation of men and women across all levels of the organisation.

"By increasing the proportion of academic and professional women in senior leadership positions, and achieving our WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation, we will continue to develop a workplace where our female staff can reach their full potential.

"We are already making progress as more female leaders occupy senior academic and management roles across the University, and the gender pay gap continues to narrow."

Workplace Gender Equality Agency Director, Helen Conway said employees should view the citation as a guiding light when making employment decisions.

"Employees should see it as a symbol of an organisation that is an industry leader, a facilitator of change and an employer who is committed to removing barriers that prevent all of their workforce from participating fully in the workplace."

If you would like to add the Employer of Choice for Gender Equality logo to your email signature, contact Michelle Campbell on Michelle.Campbell@newcastle.edu.au. For more information on the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, visit their website.


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