The University of Newcastle has recently been recognised as a leader in addressing inequality, becoming one of the first two universities in Australia to receive a Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Athena Swan Silver Award.
Athena Swan accreditation is the only internationally recognised framework for gender equity, diversity and inclusion and uses a rigorous, peer-reviewed process to assess an organisation’s progress and impact towards improving equity.
University of Newcastle’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky said universities should be leaders in creating a more equitable society where everyone can thrive regardless of their gender or their background.
“Soon after I commenced as Vice-Chancellor at the University of Newcastle, I had the pleasure of accepting the Athena Swan Bronze Award in December 2018. It has been extremely pleasing to see the commitments we made at that time being realised and now recognised with silver accreditation,” Alex said.
“We know there is still much to be done however, we are proud to be implementing changes that are creating an inclusive culture where equity is embedded across the university.”
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic Excellence) and Athena Swan Lead, Professor Jennifer Milam said that in the context of broader national and international conversations about gender equality in society, the University is proud to partner with SAGE in advocating for everyone to make gender equity a priority.
“This accreditation is recognition that we are at the forefront of gender equity in the workforce. We know that central to attracting and retaining female staff is providing an inclusive culture and flexible workplace where women’s careers are genuinely supported and accountability for gender equity is embedded in leadership across the University,” Jennifer said.
“We know we’re a stronger and more successful University if we have a diverse and inclusive workforce. We have genuinely put action ahead of talk to remove barriers and ensure future generations of women and people from underrepresented groups can thrive in higher education.”
The University celebrates the achievement alongside Edith Cowan University. SAGE CEO Dr Janin Bredehoeft congratulated the University of Newcastle on this milestone achievement.
“The University has shown what a huge difference it makes to have equity, diversity and inclusion embedded at the leadership level. They have established dedicated senior positions and ensured that the transformative change is well-resourced, with specific funding for research programs and quantitative data analysis,” Janin said.
“This has secured their foundations, allowed them to make significant improvements in specific areas and will support their future progression as they tackle widespread transformative change.
“Milestones of this magnitude are never reached alone: this SAGE Athena Swan Silver Award is the achievement of many. Congratulations to everyone at the University of Newcastle who drove and continues to drive their equity, diversity and inclusion work forward.”
IMAGE | Dr Ayanka Wijayawardena is a University of Newcastle researcher and a member of the Athena Swan Working Party
