Merri Health awarded Employer of Choice for Gender Equality again!

One of only 120 organisations nationally to receive WGEA citation for 2022, the award recognises Merri's achievements and commitment to closing the gender pay gap, providing flexible work arrangements and a progressive, supportive culture for people of all genders.

The WGEA citation is awarded following a rigorous application process with stretch criteria that assesses the actions organisations are taking to advance gender equality outcomes for employees. 

CEO Tassia Michaleas said “This acknowledges the commitment, hard work and values demonstrated every day by our people across our organisation. "I am proud of our commitment to gender pay equity, zero tolerance of gender-based harassment and discrimination, sexual harassment and bullying."

Achievements in Merri Health's latest Gender Equality Report show: 

• Gender pay gap reduced to 1.9% from 9.2% - substantially lower than the 13.2% national average
• Zero complaints of gender based discrimination and sexual harrassment again
• Sector-leading parental leave
• 343 different flexible working arrangements used by staff 
• 98% of staff agreed that gender and sexual harassment are not tolerated at Merri

"There is still work for us to do, and we will continue to strive to make Merri Health a supportive, safe workplace that provides equal opportunity and reward for people of all genders," Tassia said.

Director of the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, Mary Wooldridge said the employer of choice list is driven out of evidence-based assessment, and highlights employers doing the most to drive change.

“Critically, these organisations are delivering on a formula that sees better support structures in place for working families; stronger actions to address pay inequalities; and strategic recruitment and promotion practices that help to encourage the full participation of women at work,” she said.