UniBank’s commitment to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in the university sector and beyond has seen them continuously support major STEM related events and programs alongside the Academy, including the Women in STEM Decadal Plan, Catalysing Gender Equity 2020, and now Science at the Shine Dome.
UniBank also supports Australian universities with their ‘Three Minute Thesis’ competitions, as well as innovative scholarships created to encourage more women to continue working in STEM related fields.
Since 2018, UniBank has provided a Women in Physics Prize in partnership with RMIT University to encourage and support women in traditionally male-dominated STEM areas of study.
Recent award recipient, Elise Blanchfield, is currently studying physics at RMIT and used her prize to support her study expenses.
“I already love studying physics and now getting an award for it has motivated me to continue aiming for my best,” she said.
Ms Blanchfield is considering specialising in optics or astronomy and is excited about her future in Australian STEM.
“The award is a huge motivator. Seeing that my hard work and interest in physics was not only noticed, but worth an award, reinforced my enthusiasm.”
“I’m thankful to UniBank for making that possible—I never thought I’d be lucky enough to win one!”
Through actions like this, UniBank has shown that a bank can be both profitable and socially responsible. While big banks invest 0.3-0.6 per cent of profits after tax in the community, UniBank gives 7.2 per cent back to their members.
Advocacy, passion and sustainability are the drivers behind UniBank’s commitment to operate as a world leading ethical business.
UniBank has proudly maintained its status in the business world as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for six years in a row.
Its ‘Feel-Good Wealth’ approach means member money will never be invested in the fossil fuel industry, and money loaned will not be received by environmentally damaging industries.
In addition to strict investment policies, UniBank acts for the environment by ensuring that carbon emissions from their electricity and fuel use are offset to zero.
It's all part of UniBank’s ongoing commitment to being a world-leading socially responsible bank.
When you join UniBank, you can rest assured that your money is managed ethically and responsibly by a member-owned bank with solid credentials, not slogans.
This story was provided by UniBank, a Gold Event Partner of the Academy’s flagship event, Science at the Shine Dome in 2021.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
