Monash Memo - articles - 17 October 2001

[contents] [next article]

Female-friendly accolade at business awards

Monash University has been recognised as a leading organisation in adopting initiatives that advance women in the workplace.

Monash was named 'an employer of choice for women' and nominated in three of four categories at last week's inaugural EOWA (Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency) Business Achievement Awards in Sydney.

Monash was one of the top 10 in the category 'leading organisation (more than 500 employees) for the advancement of women'.

Acting manager of Monash's Equity and Diversity Centre Ms Kay Gardner was nominated in the category 'diversity leader for the advancement of women'.

Monash was the only university nominated with Vice-chancellor Professor David Robinson named in the category 'leading CEO for the advancement of women'.

Professor Robinson said the nominations were a great honour and reflected Monash's commitment to advancing women in the workplace.

"Monash has adopted staffing policies to provide a work environment where there is a commitment to equity and where equal employment opportunity is given practical effect throughout the institution," he said.

"Monash has achieved gender balance on the university's key governing body, the University Council, and has increased the number of senior women at the university.

"The university has also developed and promoted a coordinated and strategic approach to family-friendly work practices which recognise the diverse needs of staff members."

The university's strategy, he said, was acknowledged last month when Monash received a high commendation at the ACCI National Work and Family Awards.

"Monash is committed to supporting employees in balancing their work life and family obligations by providing a wide range of flexible work options, leave entitlements and support services," Professor Robinson said.