UniSC earns third SAGE Cygnet Award for advancing equitable career development

The University of the Sunshine Coast has achieved its third SAGE Cygnet Award, recognising sustained progress in removing barriers toequitable career development and reinforcing the University's commitment to gender equity.

The award, granted by Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) through the Athena Swan accreditation framework, marks UniSC's third of five awards required to progress toward Athena Swan Silver status.

UniSC Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett, said the recognition affirms the University's commitment to transparent and inclusive career pathways.

"Equitable career development is fundamental to fostering excellence in teaching, research and professional practice," Professor Bartlett said.

"This award recognises the significant work undertaken across UniSC to embed fairness, clarity and accountability into how we support staff to grow and succeed."

The Career Development Cygnet recognises UniSC's reforms to create more equitable and consistent practices. Initiatives include clearer performance and career frameworks, targeted supervisor training, stronger accountability in core systems, expanded mentoring opportunities, and enhanced leadership pathways for academic and professional staff.

SAGE reviewers praised UniSC's co-design approach, clear accountability and transparent reflection on areas for improvement. They also highlighted increased participation in professional development since the University's Athena Swan Bronze reference period, along with improved clarity in career conversations reported by staff.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Ross Young, said the reforms were critical to sustaining talent and institutional capability.

"Ensuring equitable access to career development opportunities strengthens our research culture and our broader institutional performance," Professor Young said.

"While there is more work ahead, this award confirms we are building the structures needed to support long-term career progression across the University."

UniSC intends to apply for the additional SAGE Cygnet Awards in the remaining key priority areas of recruitment and building a sustained pipeline of women in the School of Science, Technology and Engineering.

About SAGE

Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) is Australasia's leading advocate and accrediting body for equity, diversity, and inclusion in the education and research sector.

Using an evidence-based and impact-focused framework, SAGE helps institutions build systemic, structural, and cultural change. Their world-respected Athena Swan accreditation program drives and measures institutions' progress against international benchmarks.