South East Water among Australia’s best workplaces for women in 2026

South East Water has been named one of WORK180’s Top 101 Workplaces for Women in 2026 for the fourth year running and was also a finalist in the 2026 Equitable Workplace Awards for Flexible Working.

This year’s recognition reflects South East Water’s long‑term commitment to creating a workplace that supports gender equality, inclusion and flexible work.

WORK180 assesses employer policies, benefits and initiatives across 10 key areas that matter to women and underrepresented people. Winners and finalists are determined using evidence and data, not nominations or popularity.

The Herald Sun has published WORK180’s annual list to mark International Women’s Day.

South East Water Acting General Manager People, Safety and Governance, Lara Salembier said the organisation was proud to be recognised, with the results reflecting its strong focus on people.

South East Water employees can access flexible work, family violence leave, purchased leave and cultural and ceremonial leave. The organisation supports financial wellbeing, career development and community connection, and offers health and wellness programs.

Flexible work is available to all employees, with options including hybrid work, varied hours, compressed weeks, rostered days off, part‑time work and job sharing. The organisation’s hybrid working model is the norm for office‑based roles, supported by a workplace built on trust, outcomes and flexibility. New parents receive 15 weeks’ paid parental leave, 10 paid keeping in touch days and transition coaching.

South East Water will continue building a workplace where everyone feels supported, included and able to do their best work.

For South East Water careers and benefits visit Our benefits | South East Water.

Photo 1: WORK180 Top 101 endorsement badge.

Photo 2: Operator at our Mount Martha Water Recycling Plant.

Photo 3: South East Water corporate headquarters in Frankston, WatersEdge.