SESSION OVERVIEW
In the last few years, ANUSA has had an increase of staff becoming parents. Modern parenting trend shows that a vast majority of new families often have little to no family or community support when it comes to child raising. Knowing this, ANUSA acknowledged that their workplace must change to allow staff to feel welcomed, and like they are able to still engage in the workforce despite having childcare responsibilities.
ANUSA implemented a range of changes to the workplace to make it more accommodating and flexible for parents. This included a dedicated parent space in the office to allow children to come to the office, flexible working arrangements, including flexible applications of carers leave, and a genuinely adequate amount of parental leave period.
In turn, they saw great benefits including reduction of absenteeism, increased satisfaction in the workplace, and low staff turnover, amongst other benefits.
While there are risks that need to be mindful of, overall, their office has and remains to be a positive working environment for staff.
ANUSA will continue to improve in this space, with the hope to implement other initiatives such as an on-site School Holiday Program for parents with school-aged children.
Following the presentation there will be an open conversation around parental policies and support within organisations, providing an opportunity for delegates to share what they currently have in place and learn from the approaches of others across the sector. Through an open and practical discussion, you’ll explore policies, initiatives and workplace practices that support parents and carers, consider what best practice looks like, and identify opportunities to strengthen support for staff navigating parental responsibilities. Come ready to share what’s working, ask questions, hear different perspectives and take away ideas that could be adapted within your own organisation.
Session Outcomes:
- It is hoped that attendees will see the benefits of being a more family-friendly environment for staff. Making small changes in the workplace can provide an abundance of benefits and, more importantly, a healthier work culture.
- While it is not the norm for workplaces to accommodate family and childminding duties, the case study shows that making this change can and will be beneficial for most office spaces.
- Gain insights into the parental policies, support initiatives and approaches currently being used across different organisations, including what is working well and lessons learned.
PRESENTERS
Emily Yam is a Senior Student Assistance Advisor at ANUSA. She manages the ANUSA Student Assistance Team and provides welfare and advocacy support to students. Emily has been involved in designing and delivering practical programs that respond directly to students’ needs, including food security initiatives, financial support, health subsidies and accessible student services.
Emily has been at ANUSA since 2016. During this time, Emily became a mum of two children. Having a flexible and accommodating workplace environment allowed her to meet personal and professional goals.
Eleanor Boyle is the General Manager of ANU Students’ Association and has been steering the organisation for just over 16 years. She is responsible for ANUSA’s operations and for leading a team dedicated to delivering premier services to ANU students. Eleanor has an interest in student advocacy and unionism. She has a background in people management and HR. Her focus is on cultivating a collaborative, positive, and inclusive workplace for all.