Residential programs

The WATTLE Women’s Leadership Program offers an exceptional opportunity for professional and academic women to elevate their leadership potential within the higher education and research sectors. The program’s structure, featuring tailored and carefully crafted, fully residential sessions, ensures an immersive experience that balances intensive learning with practical application. Participants also benefit from online introductory and wrap-up sessions, providing flexibility and continuity throughout the program.

The Professional Program is tailored for staff at HEW 9-10 levels progressing towards senior leadership roles within their institutions. The curriculum focuses on developing the skills necessary for managing university-wide service and support divisions, offering both a theoretical framework and practical insights that are crucial for leading effectively at higher organizational levels.

The Academic Program is targeted towards staff at the Associate Professor or Professor level who are aspiring to senior leadership roles including Heads of Schools, Associate Deans, or Directors of Research Centres. The program provides a robust platform for honing leadership skills and strategic thinking. Participants will gain valuable insights into leading major research projects and university committees, positioning themselves for advanced roles such as Pro Vice-Chancellor or Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

The professional and academic programs are reserved for member universities participants only.

The Combined Program, for both academic and professionals, designed for both professional and academic women in leadership roles to experience the WATTLE program together. This program will be open for individual applications from women who meet the criteria and are currently employed in a university or research institution in Australia.

All programs recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of women leaders in academia and professional spheres. This initiative is not about addressing a deficit in women’s leadership but rather about empowering and equipping women to navigate and excel within existing institutional structures. By providing targeted
support and resources, the program aims to enhance women’s ability to thrive in leadership roles, addressing the unique challenges they may face, and leveraging their strengths to drive impactful change.

The WATTLE program acknowledges that women bring invaluable perspectives and skills to leadership positions and is dedicated to fostering an environment where these attributes can flourish and be harnessed to their fullest potential.

Overall, the WATTLE Women’s Leadership Program offers an unparalleled opportunity for transformative personal and professional development. By engaging with inspirational leaders and exploring common barriers to career progression for women, participants will benefit from an intensive leadership experience, enhanced networking opportunities, and the ongoing support of a network of over 250 alumnae. This
comprehensive approach ensures that attendees leave the program with not only a deeper understanding of their own leadership style but also the tools and connections necessary to advance in their careers.