Australian universities, engineering firms and construction companies have made this year’s list of top employers and service providers for LGBTQ inclusion.
The annual Australian LGBTQ Inclusion Awards are based on the results of the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) and Health + Wellbeing Equality Index (HWEI). These are evidence-based benchmarking tools that assess workplaces based on the impact of their LGBTQ inclusion initiatives.
This year, RMIT University took out the title of Employer of the Year. The university was also named a Gold Employer for the third year in a row during the online awards announcement last week.
Other universities featured in the include the University of Western Australia and the University of NSW, which were named a Platinum Employer and Gold Employer respectively. Deakin University, Macquarie University, Monash University, the University of Queensland and University of Sydney were all recognised as Silver Employers.
“At RMIT we uphold every person’s right to feel safe, supported and free to be themselves,” Vice-Chancellor and President Martin Bean said.
“We also know that when we bring together many minds, perspectives and lived experiences, we transform lives and shape the world. Our value of inclusion is steadfast and it’s wonderful to see a new tradition emerging as we come together on digital channels to celebrate and honour our diversity.”
How did engineering firms fare?
Engineering, energy and construction companies were also recognised in this year’s awards, including Lendlease (Platinum Projects), Energy Australia (Silver Employer) and Alcoa Australia (Silver Employer). Bronze awards went to Aurecon, Jacobs and John Holland, which also took out the Achievement Award for Most Improved Employer.
Executive Sponsor of the John Holland Pride Network David Lehmann said he welcomed the award as recognition of the business’ dedication to LGBTI inclusion, while acknowledging there was still work to be done.
“This industry hasn’t always been the most progressive – and that’s changing,” said
“The award reflects the hard work and dedication of our employee-driven Pride Network and Committee members. As an ally, it’s an honour to help support an inclusive and caring culture.”
Dawn Hough, Director of ACON’s Pride Inclusion Programs, which holds the awards, said record numbers of employers across all sectors and states participated in the indices, highlighting the ongoing importance of LGBTQ inclusion initiatives.
“Over the past decade, we have seen incredible advancements in workplace diversity and inclusion,” Hough said.
“As we progress further, it remains critical that not only are efforts acknowledged and congratulated, but pressure continues to be applied to maintain and build upon what has been achieved.
“The announcement of the finalists of [these] awards gives us an insight into the amazing breadth of work being done by so many in making organisations across Australia more inclusive of LGBTQ people and communities.”