Universities the employer of choice for women

TWO Gold Coast universities have been recognised by the Federal Government as showing leadership in providing equal opportunity for women in the workplace.

Southern Cross University and Griffith University are among 95 organisations nationally listed in the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency’s (EOWA) 2010 Employer of Choice for Women list.

The organisations recognised by the annual EOWA Employer of Choice for Women list range across a variety of sizes and industries and are selected by assessing the employment conditions and opportunities available for women.

EOWA acting director Mairi Steele, says the recipients of the accolade are recognised for the promotion of equal employment opportunities.

“By applying for and receiving this citation, these organisations are not only meeting the pre-requisites and criteria, but are publicly declaring their commitment to making their workplaces equitable,” says Steele.

The selection criteria includes maternity leave conditions, part-time opportunities, percentage of female managers and ensuring a pay equity analysis has been undertaken and any gap identified is less than their industry average.

Manager of Southern Cross University’s equity and diversity office Rachel Callahan, says it reflects the commitment made by the institution.

“This is wonderful recognition of the ongoing work being done across the university to increase the representation of women at senior management level and in providing support for the development of their careers,” says Callahan.

“We have a number of initiatives through the Development Program for Women aimed at supporting and promoting the university’s female staff.”

Other Queensland organisations selected for the EOWA Employer of Choice for Women list are Brisbane Girls Grammar School, Queensland University of Technology, St Aidan’s Trust, University of the Sunshine Coast, CUA, C&K, UnitingCare Health, John Wiley & Sons Australia Ltd, Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers and McCullough Robertson Lawyers.