The University also achieved this recognition in 2016.
According to the Workplace Gender Equity Agency (WGEA), momentum for improved workplace gender equality is building, with issues like pay equity and women’s untapped leadership potential making headlines worldwide.
La Trobe University was recognised as having gender equality as a business priority.
La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar said he was delighted the University had received the citation.
“Holding the Employer of Choice for Gender Equity citation shows that your organisation is taking the action necessary to drive real change in workplace gender equality,” Professor Dewar said.
“I’m proud of the commitment we have made as a University to gender equity, with initiatives including the SAGE Athena Swan program, the development of a Women in Research Strategy for all women at La Trobe, and our proactive stance on violence prevention on campus.
“Last year we also launched a Women’s Academic Promotions Support program that directly addresses gender biases that were identified in data collected as part of our involvement in the Athena Swan accreditation program.”
Criteria for the WGEA citation includes leadership; learning and development; gender remuneration gaps; flexible working and other initiatives to support family responsibilities; preventing sex-based harassment and discrimination, and targets for improving gender equality outcomes.
La Trobe is one of 120 organisations nationally to secure a citation, in recognition of the University’s demonstrated initiatives to improve gender equity in the tertiary sector.
“Our second WGEA citation will enable us to continue to attract, retain and support a high-performing and diverse employee community,” Professor Dewar said.
