Coles Group has been awarded Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (EOCGE) by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA).
Coles was recognised for its leadership, increased learning and development opportunities, narrowing gender remuneration gaps, encouraging flexible working, preventing sex-based harassment and discrimination, and meeting targets for improving gender equality outcomes.
“Leading employers, like Coles, have stepped up to the plate by taking action to accelerate change for gender equality in the workplace,” says WGEA Director Mary Woolridge.
“Critically, EOCGE employers are delivering an approach that results in better support structures in place for working families; stronger actions to address pay inequalities; and strategic recruitment, promotion and retention practices that encourage the full participation of women at work.”
Coles Group General Manager Corporate and Indigenous Affairs and chair of the Coles Gender Equity Steering Committee Sally Fielke says the company is proud to be recognised for its progress.
“Gender equity is fundamental to our ambition to build a strong, diverse and inclusive culture at Coles,” she says.
“We’ve continued to push for gender balance, setting targets for more women in leadership, and supporting a range of programs including talent attraction programs like RelauncHER, our accelerator program for store managers, as well as initiatives to retain the incredible women we have in our business.
“We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported, so we continue to attract the best people to Coles.”
New fundraiser
The announcement comes as Coles launches a fundraising campaign for national charity Fitted for Work.
For two weeks, the retailer will donate 10¢ from every haircare, skincare and cosmetic product sold in supermarkets nationally, with funds raised helping Fitted for Work support unemployed and underemployed Australian women through initiatives such as recruitment workshops, a personal outfitting service, distributing workwear parcels from donated items, and post-employment mentorships.
Fitted for Work Managing Director Donna de Zwart says funds raised will help women across Australia to be fitted for work and fitted for life.
“Right now, women in Australia are overwhelmed and worried about the future, facing cost-of-living pressures, and widespread housing stress,” she says.
“The generous donations from Coles this March will help thousands of women on their journey towards not only finding employment but experiencing social connection and a sense of purpose.”