As a Male Champion of Change, Adam Fennessy, Secretary Department Environment, Land, Water & Planning (DELWP), is genuinely committed to driving change and leading from the front. As a member of the Top 50 Public Sector Women list judging panel, Adam shares DELWP’s commitment to gender equity and highlights their achievements.

Do you feel that men have a role to play in driving gender balance in the workplace?

Yes, I believe that men need to step up and take responsibility and action to drive equality in our organisations and across our community. It’s important to me that gender equity is no longer seen as a women’s issue or a men’s issue, but a challenge for us all.

Is achieving a gender balanced workforce a priority for DELWP?

At DELWP, we are building an inclusive, gender balanced and flexible workforce because we know that workforces that reflect the community make better decisions and achieve better outcomes for the community.

Reflecting our community is important for us, as we deliver on our promise to put the community at the centre of everything we do to shape and support liveable, inclusive and sustainable communities and thriving natural environments throughout Victoria.

How is DELWP tracking in terms of achieving a gender balance?

At DELWP, we have a 50/50 gender target for executive roles and all roles are available as flexible. We achieved our target for a gender balanced executive last July, with 50 percent of women holding executive roles. We’re mindful of maintaining this balance and insist on gender balanced shortlisting and panels for all executive roles.

Do you feel that gender equity is a priority in the public service?

Yes, gender equity is a priority for us across the Victorian Public Service, and together, we’re committed to reflecting our community in our workforce and working towards our 50/50 gender balanced executive target.

Entries are now open and nominations can be submitted for the T op 50 Public Sector Women (Victoria) .  For more information go to: www.publicsectorwomen.com.au