Helping women reach their potential

ECU has received an Employer of Choice for Women (EOCFW) citation from the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kerry Cox said he was pleased that ECU has received this accolade as it reflects the success of the University's efforts to help female staff reach their potential.

"The citation takes into account ECU's generous maternity leave policy and other flexible leave arrangements which assist female staff to successfully manage their careers and family commitments. This is particularly important as we recognise that women's careers can develop differently to men's."

The citation is especially timely as ECU celebrated International Women's Day on Monday, 8 March with the second annual Edith Cowan Memorial Lecture, delivered by Professor Donna Cross, Director of ECU's Child Health Promotion Research Centre.

ECU's commitment to female staff is also reflected in the Women@ECU initiative which focuses on creating opportunities for professional and academic staff to be the best they can be wherever they are in their career path. Such opportunities include professional development programs, human resources activities including family friendly work practices and Staff Plus. The initiative also provides specific support for seminars, coffee conversations, networking opportunities, guest speakers and special events.

"I congratulate and thank all staff who have helped us to create a more supportive and nurturing workplace and I look forward to even more improvements in the future," said Professor Cox.

Source: Edith Cowan University http://www.ecu.edu.au/pr/InsideECU/2010/03/ecu-is-recognised-for-helping-women-reach-their-potential/