Return to Our Story page
News
A history of equity: women’s and gender studies
Two years after Murdoch University was established, it became one of the first universities in Australia to offer courses in Women’s Studies and Gender Studies.
The 1970s saw the second wave of the feminism movement, with women around the world continuing the call for equality in employment and education as well as an equitable voice in social and political issues.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the University became known as a hub of forward-thinking and empowering diverse thoughts and people, as well as a leader in gender equality.
In 1985, Murdoch University hosted a lecture by Anne Summers AO - Australian writer, columnist, feminist, then First Assistant Secretary of the Office of the Status of Women and the first woman to become the president of the press gallery in Canberra.
In her address ‘'The Changing Family in a Changing World', chaired by Geoffrey Bolton, she commended Murdoch University’s women’s studies units and the library for its diverse women’s collections.
Next, Ms Summers AO, discussed the changing landscape of employment and education opportunities for women, and how industries had historically not hired the most qualified candidates if they were women, due to the belief that men were the breadwinners.
She spoke at-length about the importance of gender equity in the workplace and higher education, and shared personal anecdotes about her own work in women’s liberation.
“For women of my generation, brought up to become the good wife, the changes in our lives have been immense and extensive,” Ms Summers AO said in her address.
“They have not been accomplished without some pain, for social transformation is never painless.”
The lecture hall was at full capacity, welcoming students and attendees from all walks of life to hear about the importance of gender equity.
A continuing legacy
In the following years and decades, Murdoch University has continued to centre gender equity as well as inclusion and intersectionality.
One of three key elements in the University’s 2023-2030 Strategy is Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.
This core value incapsulates welcoming diverse communities from a wide range of backgrounds, and commits to ensure that everyone, regardless of race, culture, ability, religion, gender, sexuality, age or economic class, is able to achieve their full potential in higher education.
A dedicated Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team ensures supports are available for all intersections of gender identity, sexuality, race and culture.
Through this commitment, Murdoch University’s legacy of inclusivity, equity and acceptance continues into its bright future.