Proud to be a Women in STEM Decadal Plan Champion
The University of Newcastle is proud to be named as a Women in STEM Decadal Plan Champion by the Australian Academy of Science.
The Women in STEM Decadal Plan provides a framework to ensure government, academia, the education sector, industry and the community are moving towards a shared vision for change. Specifically, to attract, retain and progress girls and women in STEM education and careers, recognising that gender equity in STEM will make significant and measurable improvements in Australia’s:
- preparedness for the future
- workforce participation
- economic performance
- scientific impacts
- creativity and entrepreneurial activities.
Qualifying as a Decadal Plan Champion reinforces the University’s strong commitment to achieving positive cultural change. In December 2018, the University of Newcastle was one of the first research institutions in Australia to receive the SAGE Athena SWAN Bronze Award.
“Being recognised as a Decadal Plan Champion is another strong signal that gender equity is a central focus of our endeavours at the University of Newcastle,” Women in STEMM Chair, Professor Billie Bonevski said.
But while the Decadal Plan Response outlines progress made to date, Professor Billie Bonevski is cognisant of the need to remain vigilant and intentional to ensure ongoing gains are made.
“Our Athena SWAN Action Plan identifies 77 actions for delivering improved outcomes across a range of areas including organisational culture; representation, leadership and governance; recruitment, retention and remuneration; career progression; Indigenous and other under-represented groups; and student pipeline and outreach.
“We have made good progress but there is more to be done to deliver viable pathways for emerging female talent and to ensure a gender-balanced STEMM* workforce across disciplines and at all levels.
“Our University looks forward to working with the Australian Academy of Science, the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering and other Decadal Plan Champions to effect real and lasting change,” Professor Bonevski said.
A copy of the University of Newcastle’s Women in STEM Decadal Plan Champion Response can be downloaded via the Australian Academy of Science website.
*The University refers to STEMM – science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.