Since 2016, SAGE has been working with Universities and research organisations to deliver practical organization-wide change to improve gender equality, diversity and inclusion through the Athena Swan Program.
The members have received more than 86 awards for delivering targeted evidence-based action that has delivered change. These have included initiatives targeting the gender pay gap, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, disability inclusion, parents and carers flexibility, gender-based violence and many more. Our progress and impact case studies captures the real value of this work.
Impact can also be seen clearly at the macro level through reporting mechanisms such as the yearly Workplace Gender Equity Agency employer data. In 2025, SAGE member institutions reported a lower median gender pay gap (6.5% compared to 10.3% for non-members).
Member institutions are closing gaps faster, balancing gender representation in senior roles, embedding stronger transparency and accountability, creating safer workplaces and implementing robust policy foundations.
SAGE’s model is now considered sector best-practice, reflective of international best practice and highly prestigious in higher education and research.
Based on the impact success of SAGE’s Athena Swan program, SAGE is co-designing bespoke programs for TAFEs and MRIs. These sectors now have a unique opportunity to shape their own tailored approach that draws on the proven Athena Swan model, but is designed specifically for these sectors individual strengths, realities, and ambitions.
