In addition to joining SAGE, UNE has appointed Associate Professor Skye Charry from the School of Law to guide the University’s participation in the program and oversee the development of a coordinated strategy to improve gender equity across teaching, research and leadership.
A recognised expert in sex discrimination law, Dr Charry has researched, presented, consulted and practised as lawyer on workplace sexual harassment for over two decades.
As Academic Lead, Associate Professor Charry will work across the University to guide the evidence-gathering and consultation process that underpins the Athena Swan framework. She will help coordinate the development of UNE’s gender equity strategy and ensure the work is informed by data, research and community engagement.
“Joining the Athena Swan pathway signals UNE’s commitment to moving beyond aspiration and towards meaningful, measurable change. Gender equity in universities does not occur by chance. It grows from thoughtful reflection on the systems, cultures and practices that shape people’s experiences of work, research and leadership,” A/Professor Charry said.
“The Athena Swan framework provides a rigorous and practical way to undertake that work, and I am delighted to support UNE as we develop an evidence-based strategy that helps every member of our community thrive.”
UNE Vice-Chancellor Professor Chris Moran said SAGE provides a practical framework to strengthen equity across the institution.
“Joining the SAGE Athena Swan pathway gives UNE a clear structure to examine where we are, identify barriers and take practical steps to improve gender equity across the University,” Professor Moran said.
“Programs like this help ensure that gender equity strategies are embedded within UNE’s operational framework, creating lasting change.”
Athena Swan takes an intersectional approach to equity and diversity, recognising the different experiences of people across gender, culture, disability and other aspects of identity. The program also encourages institutions to embed Indigenous knowledges and perspectives within their work.
The University will begin by working towards the Athena Swan Bronze Award, which recognises institutions that have identified gender equity challenges and developed a clear action plan to address them.
From there, UNE will aim for SAGE Cygnet Awards, which recognise measurable progress in specific areas of equity and inclusion. Achieving five Cygnet Awards makes an institution eligible to apply for the Athena Swan Silver Award, which recognises sustained, institution-wide progress and a strong culture of gender equity.
The first phase of the process will focus on gathering and analysing data to establish a clear baseline of gender equity across the University. This analysis will identify priority areas for action.
UNE will then design and implement strategies to address those areas and collect further data to measure progress. The results will inform future action plans as part of an ongoing cycle of review and improvement.
SAGE Chief Executive Officer Dr Janin Bredehoeft welcomed UNE to the program.
“SAGE is thrilled to welcome the University of New England to the international network of Athena Swan institutions. By taking this step, UNE is doing more than signalling their support for equity, diversity and inclusion: they are committing to a deep, long-term process of self-analysis and transparent, accountable progress.”
“With SAGE beside them as an ongoing partner and critical friend, UNE will have advice, tools and an active community of practice to support them on their journey. We can't wait to begin this process together and work towards a workplace where everyone can thrive.”
About SAGE
SAGE is Australasia’s leading advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion in the education and research sector. It supports organisations to build workplaces where people from all backgrounds can succeed.
SAGE administers the Athena Swan accreditation program in Australia. The framework uses an evidence-based and impact-focused approach to help institutions develop strategies that address systemic and cultural barriers to equity.
Participants are supported with practical tools, expert advice and communities of practice as they work towards measurable improvements in equity, diversity and inclusion.
About Athena Swan
Athena Swan is a globally recognised accreditation and awards program focused on gender equity, diversity and inclusion in higher education and research.
The framework provides organisations with a structured way to assess their progress, develop action plans and benchmark their work against international standards.
In Australia, the Athena Swan program is delivered exclusively by SAGE and has been adapted to reflect the national higher education and research context.
Staff who are interested in participating in the process can contact Athena-Swan@une.edu.au.
