Monash University has become the first Group of Eight university in Australia to gain SAGE Athena Swan Silver accreditation for advancing gender equity, diversity and inclusion
Monash University representatives at the SAGE 10-Year Anniversary Awards Dinner on 25 August, where the University was awarded Athena Swan Silver accreditation. Pictured from left to right are: Professor Nick McGuigan, Professor Helena Teede, Professor Jane Bourke, Dr Lucie Joschko, Professor Laura Jobson, Dr Belinda Garth, Associate Professor Pearl Subban, Ms Bridgid Connors, Professor Nicoletta Maynard, Dr Ayan Dasvarma.
Monash University has become the first Group of Eight university in Australia to gain Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Athena Swan Silver accreditation for advancing gender equity, diversity and inclusion.
This prestigious accreditation was awarded by SAGE, Australasia's leading equity, diversity and inclusion advocacy group for the education and research sector, at its 10-Year Anniversary Awards Dinner on 25 August 2025, with the University also winning a Catalyst for Change Award.
The University was awarded the Athena SWAN Bronze accreditation in 2018 and has since gained five Cygnet awards as part of its pathway to Silver.
SAGE Chief Executive Officer Dr Janin Bredehoeft commended Monash for its leadership.
"Monash University has made extraordinary steps forward in improving equity, diversity and inclusion in their institution," she said.
"Monash has demonstrated important leadership by embedding equity into their governance, culture and data-driven decision making.
"What's more, they have achieved this through responsive consultation and innovative engagement.
"The tools they have used to drive systemic change, as well as their transparency and commitment to continuous improvement, set a strong example for the rest of the sector."
"In particular, we acknowledge the outstanding collective efforts - and collaborative approach - of Monash University's Athena Swan Steering Group."
Monash University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Sharon Pickering said gaining Athena Swan Silver accreditation is a tremendous milestone.
"This award highlights the strength of the work being done across our University to ensure we are a diverse, equitable and inclusive place to study and work," Professor Pickering said
"We also know there is still much more to do.
"In a time of growing global uncertainty and increasing pushback on equity, diversity and inclusion, it's more important than ever that we stay firmly on course".
At the heart of Monash's success is the Athena Swan Steering Group, comprising a diverse body of academic and professional staff based in Australia and Malaysia, working in close partnership with the University's Staff Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team.
Steering Group Chair Professor Laura Jobson said it has been instrumental in shaping actions, tracking progress and embedding inclusive practices across the University.
"Our journey from Bronze to Silver has been driven by evidence, empathy and conviction and I'm deeply proud of the progress we've made together," Professor Jobson said.
