'I personally believe in creating equity in our society'

140 organisations across Australia have been awarded the (WGEA) Employer of Choice citation

BY John Hilton 26 Feb 2019

Embracing workplace gender equality means different things for different organisations, according to Workplace Gender Equality Agency’s (WGEA) Director Libby Lyons.

Every employer committed to gender equality embarks upon their own unique journey towards achieving the equal participation by women and men in their workplace, added Lyons.

Indeed, 140 organisations across Australia have been awarded the (WGEA) Employer of Choice citation, which is awarded to organisations that meet rigorous standards in workplace gender equality.

David Hackett, CEO, MLC Life Insurance, said he is proud the company has been awarded the Employer of Choice for Gender Equality Citation.

“As a WGEA Pay Equity Ambassador, I personally believe in creating equity in our society,” said Hackett.

Hackett added that the citation is a great acknowledgement of the progress being made, as the life insurer continues its goal to cultivate an ethical culture of customer empathy.

“MLC Life Insurance’s diversity helps us to attract and support people who understand the needs of our customers,” said Hackett.

“Our aspiration is for every employee, to bring their whole selves to work so that we can embrace diverse perspectives and improve our employee and customer experience.

“We’re the custodians of a 133-year-old Australian icon, so I see we have an extra responsibility to advance workplace gender equality for our current and future customers, employees and industry.”

Moreover, Hackett said MLC Life Insurance has also been a member of the Nippon Life Group of Companies since 2016 and during this time they have exchanged ideas and initiatives on diversity and inclusion.

“Nippon Life is looking closely at our diversity initiatives and how this can contribute to other companies in the Nippon group worldwide.”

According to Hackett, MLC Life Insurance has implemented a range of programs to build a supportive environment for MLC Life Insurance employees. These include:

Fostering a culture of flexible working, including flexible working options and primary carer’s leave available for all employees.
Training and policies in place for all MLC Life Insurance employees.
Running an annual pay gap analysis.
Supporting parents and working families, with parental leave is available to both males and females.
Having a domestic violence policy and support initiatives.
Establishing a Diversity and Inclusion Council to listen to employees, improve the gender balance, deliver responsive programs and drive progress.

According to Lyons, all the 2018-19 EOCGE citation holders are at different stages of their gender equality journey.

“What unites them is their determination and commitment to achieving workplace gender equality. I congratulate all of these organisations for being agents of change, leading the way forward for other Australian employers to follow.”