Vice Chancellor Professor John Yovich launched Murdoch University's Equity Plan 2003-2007 and officially presented a cheque for the Disability Employment Fund 2003-2005, on Friday 28 May 2004. (Photos) (Speeches 1 and 2)

BACKGROUND BRIEFING (launch: 28 May 2004)

Welcome to the launch of Murdoch University's Equity Plan 2003 – 2007. The initiative follows the University's commitment to equity and social justice identified in the University's new Strategic Plan 2003-07 as one of the main themes to govern the University's business.

The Equity Plan presents an amalgam of equity targets and strategies as set forth by the Performance Against Targets document and equity and social justice goals articulated in the University's Strategic Plan 2003–07.

Equity and social justice is a long-term agenda that requires rethinking the way we live, govern, and do business. The Equity Plan in conjunction with the Performance Against Targets document, endorsed by Senate in 2003, will provide the University with equity benchmarks for policies guiding recruitment, access, retention and success.

The Equity Plan supports the University in the achievement of its equity and social justice goals. It provides a set of equity goals and targets with recommended strategies for implementation and management responsibility.

Co-responsibility and accountability by all University staff, especially supervisory staff and administrative Heads, are essential to the implementation of the Plan.

All Divisions, Schools and Offices are encouraged to use this Plan.

The Equity Plan promotes equity employment for the following equity groups – indigenous, people with special needs (disabilities) and women.

Today, we showcase Murdoch's ongoing commitment towards employment for people with special needs – the formal presentation of a cheque by the Vice Chancellor to the Disability Employment Fund 2003-2005.

Set up in 2000, the Fund has facilitated, and continues to provide, the payment of wages to thirteen employees – fixed term and casual. The positions have been varied – administrative, human resources, library, finances, grounds – to name a few. The basic aim of the Fund is to support as many employments, for people with special needs, as possible by providing an introductory salary till the stage of their assessment towards eligibility for long-term contracts or continuing employment.

The Equal Opportunity and Social Justice Section will continue to network with the various Divisions, Schools, Offices and Departments to collaboratively implement the goals and objectives set for the coming years.

Thank you.