A great industry for women

Aged care providers are well represented on the list of  Australia’s top 111 employers of choice for women.

Half a dozen provider organisations were recognised in the federal government’s Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency’s (EOWA) annual commendation.

To be recognised as an employer of choice for women, organisations must meet a set of stringent outcomes in their workplace policies and practices.

Among the standout achievers was Victorian not-for-profit group Benetas which made the list for the fourth year running.

“This is a fantastic accolade that reflects our ongoing efforts to build a workplace and community that encourages diversity, values potential and develops people,” said CEO, Sandra Hills.

“As well as family-friendly practices and a real commitment to professional development, we actively listen to our staff to ensure we continue to develop new initiatives and raise the bar every year.”

Mercy Health was recognised as an employer of choice for women for the second year in a row and its CEO, John Ballard was named the Leading CEO for the Advancement of Women.

“Attracting, retaining and promoting women in Mercy Health’s workforce are organisational priorities,” he said.

“[We offer] a range of flexible work policies, practices and programs to all of our people, assisting them to integrate and balance their careers with the demands of life.”

The announcement comes as Mercy Health seeks to fill 250 new jobs as it prepares for the opening of two new facilities in metropolitan Melbourne.

The Acting Director of EOWA, Mairi Steele praised the organisations that made the list.

“We don’t claim that [they] are perfect, but they are certainly leading the way,” she said

“This list provides women with a guide to organisations showing a real commitment to creating fair workplaces and to achieving genuine results for working women.”

Other aged care providers on the list include Baptist Community Services – NSW & ACT, Catholic Care of the Aged, Fullarton Lutheran Homes and Warrigal Care.

Click here to see the list of employers of choice for women.