Matt Hewson
Two Geelong businesses were recognised at the inaugural National Gender Equity Awards at Crown Casino, winning major awards for their work in promoting gender equity in business and the workplace.
Coulter Legal won the Recalibrate Gender Equity Award for medium companies, while Cotton On won the Enterprise Size section for the largest companies at the black-tie gala event on Thursday, November 17.
Alongside finalist organisations such as Amazon Web Services, L’Oreal, Crown Resorts, Jayco Corporation and Monash IVF Group, Coulter Legal and Cotton On shared their stories of championing gender equity.
The all-star judging panel recognised Coulter Legal’s commitment to workplace flexibility at all levels, while Cotton On won its section on the strength of its many initiatives including an in-house childcare service, a phased return-to-work program after parental leave and its Baby and YOU packs for mothers and newborns.
Coulter Legal general manager Belinda Perisic said the whole organisation was excited to be recognised for its achievements.
“We’re thrilled; we don’t often put ourselves out there, but I think we should be proud of what we’re doing,” she said.
Ms Perisic said the awards night was not only a celebration, but a showcase and an opportunity for sharing and learning.
“It’s such an important piece of work for everyone to contribute to, and I think these awards go a long way toward making it both more visible and accessible,” she said.
“Sometimes it can be hard to think creatively about these things, especially when you’re in a smaller business. You automatically think you’re restricted, from a space perspective, or a time or dollar perspective.
“But one of the best things on the night was getting to hear what other workplaces are doing differently, normalising what businesses are doing to remove barriers for women in particular and showcasing it in a way that makes it relatable.
“I wish I’d had a pen and paper. It was very inspiring to hear businesses talking about all their incredible programs.”
Workplace Gender Equality Director Mary Woolridge, who gave a keynote speech at the awards, said Cotton On and Coulter Legal were acting as role models for the business community.
“These Awards showcased and celebrated employers that are going above and beyond to ensure a gender equal workplace,” she said.
“Employers, like Geelong locals Cotton On and Coulter Legal, are demonstrating that gender equality isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s generating better outcomes for their business.
“Taking action on gender equality sets employers apart and helps attract the staff they need for their businesses in a tight talent market.”
