Regional/National Reach Program

Over the last decade, employers across Australia, have made enormous strides in progressing workplace inclusion initiatives focused on their LGBTQ+ talent. This includes those in the private sector as well those in all levels of government and irrespective of organisational size. However, one of the great challenges for organisations is how to ensure that such positive steps are reaching ALL their employees, irrespective of their distance from head office.

The recent marriage equality debate in Australia did highlight divergent views on equality across the nation, with some, albeit a minority, of more remote communities showing less progressive or inclusive views. The recent Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) survey also highlighted the challenges faced away from the major metropolitan areas. For example:

• Metropolitan employees believe LGBTQ+ inclusion initiatives are more important than those further afield (84% vs 78%)
• Likewise, more city-based employees understand why LGBTQ+ inclusion is important to an organisation (87% to 81&
• Those employees in regional locations are more likely believe that there is no longer need to spend time on LGBTQ+ inclusion, post marriage equality (14% to 9%)

Significantly, workforce behaviours differ considerably between city and regional workplaces. Almost 10% of LGB respondents have experienced negative commentary and jokes in their regional workplace, which is double the response from city employees. Likewise, 12% LGB regional employees have personally experienced bullying in the workplace (as opposed to 6% of city based employees). More specifically, 39% of regional employees pointed to their direct management as a source of such bullying (compared to 20% in the city).

With this in mind, and as part of our strategic initiatives we are continuing to deliver a program that focuses on workplace inclusion in regional Australia. Each day-long program features a series of training sessions on LGBTQ+ awareness and ally enablement, as well as a cross-member roundtable session, and a networking event to bring together LGBTQ+ employees from member organisations and the broader community.

WESTERN SYDNEY SUMMIT

Tuesday 8th April 2025

Pride in Diversity is the national peak body focused on LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion, engaging with over 500 organisations who employ over 3.5 million employees around Australia. Our members have requested we take the conversation about LGBTQ+ workplace diversity and inclusion to Greater Western Sydney.

The summit is open to all employers and employees – including state and local governments, small business and community employers in Greater Western Sydney. The purpose of the summit is to encourage conversation and create a space for organisations and their teams to consider LGBTQ+ inclusion within diverse workplaces, and with multicultural workforces and customers.

Held at Western Sydney University (Parramatta Campus) on Tuesday 8^th April 2025 and chaired by Pride in Diversity and our patron, Chancellor of Western Sydney University and Special Advisor at KPMG, Jennifer Westacott AO, the Summit presents a series of speaker events and an interactive workshop focusing on awareness and effecting cultural change. It will include discussion on critical elements of LGBTQ+ inclusion with the intent of addressing questions about these topics for organisations, leaders, HR and D&I professionals and employee networks in Greater Western Sydney.

This event is free, but registrations are essential.

Leadership and the future of DEI

Given shifting priorities and societal debates, the future of DEI remains uncertain. Join us for this practical discussion and take away strategies to engage leadership, support underrepresented groups and sustaining change amid evolving challenges and organisational landscapes.

8:30am – 9:45am AEST – Register here

The intersection of CARM, gender and sexuality

This conversation explores the unique challenges and experiences faced by individuals who can experience racism, sexism, and homophobia the speakers highlight barriers in workplaces, leadership, and community spaces. Gain insights into fostering truly equitable environments by understanding intersectionality, and take away action-driven strategies to create meaningful change for those navigating multiple layers of marginalisation.

10:00am – 10:45am AEST – Register here

Navigating LGBTQ+ inclusion for a multicultural workforce

Inclusion in a multicultural workforce involves considering the complexities of creating safe and affirming spaces while respecting diverse cultural perspectives. This conversation covers strategies for fostering inclusion, from leadership commitment and policy development to education and allyship. Gain insights into balancing cultural sensitivity with LGBTQ+ rights, equipping organisations to build inclusive workplaces where all employees feel valued.

11:30am – 12:30pm AEST – Register here

Lunch

(Catered)

12:30pm – 1:15pm AEST – Register here

Leading from the top and building from the bottom – effecting cultural change workshop

How do you balance cultural sensitivities with LGBTQ+ rights, overcoming resistance, and fostering allyship across diverse backgrounds? Through participant led exercises we’ll discuss how executives can set the tone through policies, advocacy, and accountability while empowering employees to drive cultural shifts from the ground up.

From these discussions, you’ll take away practical tools to take a holistic approach, ensuring LGBTQ+ employees feel valued, supported, and represented in diverse work environments.

1:15pm – 2:45pm AEST – Register here

Creating queer spaces

How do you create a space for LGBTQ+ people where they feel safe, seen and valued? Is it different at work to out in community? What about digital spaces? This discussion will cover what works (and what doesn’t), empowering queer voices, and balancing different priorities.

3:00pm – 4:00pm – Register here