NBN Co is committed to increasing female representation in the workforce under an initiative to raise female participation in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) roles.
The company has joined the Australian Academy of Science’s Women in STEM Decadal Plan Champions – the first Government Business Enterprise to champion the initiative.
The commitment aligns with nbn’s target of achieving 40 per cent female representation in management positions. A report into STEM gender equity in Australia found women filled just 23 per cent of senior management and eight per cent of CEOs in STEM industries.
Academy Chief Executive Anna-Maria Arabia welcomed nbn as a Decadal Plan Champion.
“nbn’s achievements towards gender equity show it’s committed to positive and sustainable change for women in STEM,” Ms Arabia said.
“We are excited to see one of Australia’s major corporations take the next step in its journey to achieve gender equity and greater diversity in the workforce.”
NBN Co Chief People and Culture Officer Sally Kincaid said nbn has lifted the percentage of women in management roles, with more than 34 per cent in December 2022.
“But we need to do more – and we’re working hard to reach our goal of 40 per cent,” Ms Kincaid said.
“As a major telco employer we have a responsibility to demonstrate the personal, professional and industry-wide benefits of recruiting and retaining top female talent.
“Joining the Women in STEM Decadal Plan formalises our commitment – ultimately, we accept we will be judged by our actions, not what we say.
“An inclusive culture drives innovation and enables the business to fulfil its purpose of lifting the digital capability of Australia.”
Read nbn’s Champion Response to the Women in STEM Decadal Plan.
The Women in STEM plan encourages organisations to work towards gender equity through leadership and cohesion, evaluation, workplace culture, visibility, education and industry action.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
