Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) Recognises SMEC as an Employer of Choice in Gender Equality

31 July 2024

Sydney, Australia

SMEC is proud to announce that it has been recognised by the Australian Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) as an Employer of Choice in Gender Equality (EOCGE), a citation it has held since 2020.

This prestigious citation underscores SMEC’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment that promotes respect, diversity, and equal opportunities for all employees in Australia.

“We believe in harnessing the strength of our people to unlock their greatest potential,” said Hari Poologasundram, Chief Executive. “This means creating an inclusive and respectful work environment, where everyone feels they equally belong”.

The WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality award encourages, recognises, and promotes organisations’ active efforts in achieving gender equality within Australian workplaces. The rigorous assessment process includes leadership, learning and development, remuneration gaps, flexible working arrangements, family support initiatives, employee consultation, and measures to prevent sex-based harassment and discrimination.

WGEA CEO Mary Wooldridge said of the 115 employers who received the citation this week, “These employers have implemented evidence-informed solutions to take effective action in their workplaces. Their commitment serves as an example to others seeking to address systemic issues that hinder both men and women from reaching their full potential at work.”

Karen Quinlan, Director, People & Culture said, “We celebrate our progress, but recognise there is more to be done. Our commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace remains unwavering.”

SMEC has implemented a number of recent initiatives to increase gender equality in Australia, including:

Transparency and Accountability: In February 2024, SMEC shared an Employer Statement to support the publishing of its gender pay gap data by WGEA, demonstrating transparency and commitment to pay equity.

Increased Specialist Resources: In June 2024, SMEC appointed an additional resource, Senior Advisor for Equality, Inclusion, Diversity & Belonging (EDIB) to drive initiatives across the organisation.

Employee Engagement: SMEC actively sought feedback through its Inclusion & Diversity Survey, ensuring employee voices are heard.

Empowering Women: The Women@SJ Group was launched, providing support and empowerment for women and gender-diverse individuals.

Addressing Disparities: An Annual Gender Parity Analysis corrected systemic salary discrepancies.

Equity and Inclusion: The SJ Group, of which SMEC is a member company, introduced the Council of Excellence, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

Enhanced Policies: SMEC updated policies for Australian employees, including Shared Paid Parental Leave, increased Domestic and Family Violence Leave, and updated the Sexual Harassment Prevention & Response Procedure.

Flexible Culture: SMEC continues to foster a flexible work environment that accommodates diverse needs.

SMEC will continue to evaluate ways to better provide a safe, flexible, inclusive and respective workplace for all our employees, clients and partners.

For more information on SMEC’s commitment to gender equality, visit www.smec.com.

Contact:
Suzanne Gibbs
Director – Director, Marketing, SJ Group and Director, Brand & Communications,
Infrastructure + Energy
Suzanne.gibbs@smec.com

Author

SMEC Marketing

Agency

Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA)

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