Equity, diversity and inclusion is a priority for the Centre, and is one of its key portfolios, alongside outreach and media, and translation and mentoring.
The Centre supports women in science and is committed to ensuring at least 30 per cent of all new student and postdoctoral appointments are female. This is a strong commitment towards improving gender balance in the field.
Additionally, the Centre actively involves Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through the outreach program, striving to foster meaningful engagement. Whenever feasible, the Center also prioritises indigenous suppliers.
Best practices are adopted across the Centre to promote and support equity, diversity and inclusion – in its recruitment guidelines, code of conduct, strategic plans, composition of committees, policy regarding meeting times and carer support. Essential equity, diversity and inclusion training is regularly delivered to Centre members at all levels.
Vision:
Leading by example towards Equity and Diversity through inclusion, flexibility, and inspiring new generations
Mission statement:
Improve gender balance in STEM through ambitious policies
Support families and carers
Inspire a new, more diverse generation toward STEMs
Build a culture of respect and inclusion
EDI committee:
Chair: Martin White
Deputy Chair: Jade McKenzie
Administrative support and contact:
Definitions of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion:
Equity – when everyone is treated fairly and impartially.
Diversity – having different attributes and backgrounds, which in turn means people with different skills, experiences and perspectives.
Inclusion – occurs when a range of people from diverse backgrounds and with varied skills feel valued and respected, have access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute their perspectives and talents to improving their organisation.
The role of the EDI committee is to “PROCLAIM”:
Propose EDI targeted initiatives such as seminars and fellowships
Report on EDI activities of the Centre for the annual report
Organise EDI events such as training and dedicated workshops
Communicate through the website and presentations at Centre events
Listen and be a point of contact
Advocate EDI best practices via outreach and social media
Identify EDI challenges in the Centre and the Dark Matter scientific community
Monitor the evolution with respect to the KPI of the Centre
Resources and external links:
Contact
To contact the Equity, DIversity and Incusion team or for more information, email: cdm-admin@unimelb.edu.au