Amanda Jones
21 February 2018: The University of Canberra’s commitment to gender equality in the workplace has been recognised for an eleventh consecutive year.
The University of Canberra is one of 120 organisations nationwide and one of just two in the ACT to be named a 2017-18 Employer of Choice for Gender Equality.
The citation, awarded by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, is designed to encourage, recognise and promote active commitment to achieving gender equality in Australian workplaces.
The University of Canberra has received the award since 2007, when it was known as the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency (EOWA) Employer of Choice for Women.
The University’s Strategic Plan for 2018-2022 highlights the University’s commitment to become a national sector leader in equality, diversity, inclusion and access and this accolade is proof the University continues to move in the right direction.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Klomp said the University is proud of its record as an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality.
“People are attracted to the University of Canberra because of our distinctive culture, values, support and our focus on putting our people first. Our staff, students and alumni are our greatest assets. We are thrilled to receive this recognition as a leading employer for gender equality.”
Examples of the University’s commitment to gender equality in the workplace include a generous paid parental leave scheme for the primary care-giver, increased paid partner leave and flexible working arrangements.
The University of Canberra’s 50/50 by 2030 Foundation aims to empower gender equality in the region. Established last year, the Foundation’s vision is for men and women to be equally represented in public leadership roles throughout Australia and across the region.
The University is also an inaugural member of the SAGE Athena SWAN pilot program which aims to tackle equality and diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
In addition to being an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, the University is also a White Ribbon Accredited Workplace and a Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace.
