Gender equality recognition

THE University of Southern Queensland has been recognised as an employer of choice for gender equality after receiving a much-coveted citation from the Federal Government’s Workplace Gender Equality Agency.

USQ was among eight Queensland organisations from the 120 Australian bodies announced to receive the Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie said it was an honour to be awarded the citation for the second consecutive year.

“USQ has demonstrated its strong commitment to gender equality, ensuring that it is embedded into all of our employee recruitment, retention, development and engagement initiatives,” Professor Mackenzie said.

“I am firmly committed to ensuring that USQ continues to foster an environment that supports social justice and inclusivity.

“Championing diversity in the workforce, particularly in creating opportunities for talented and creative women, is something USQ has always promoted and encouraged.

“The WEGA award recognises that and acknowledges the tremendous efforts being put in right across USQ to create a workplace that is inclusive, wide-ranging and accepting.”

The WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation is designed to encourage, recognise and promote active commitment to achieving gender equality in Australian workplaces.

WGEA Director Libby Lyons said she was particularly delighted to see some of the innovative and exciting initiatives by EOCGE citation holders on such issues as flexibility, paid parental leave, supporting women in leadership and addressing gender pay gaps.

“I congratulate all the 2017-18 citation holders for their commitment and recognition of benefits improved gender equality can bring to their business,” she said.

“These employers are setting the benchmark for other Australian workplaces to follow.”

Criteria for the citation cover leadership, learning and development, gender remuneration gaps, flexible working and other initiatives to support family responsibilities, employee consultation, preventing sex-based harassment and discrimination, and targets for improving gender equality outcomes.

❝ These employers are setting the benchmark for other Australian workplaces to follow. — Libby Lyons

PHOTO: USQ PHOTOGRAPHY EQUALITY: USQ’s Deputy Chancellor Jan Boys (left) with Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie and Chancellor John Dornbusch.