Why we need to acknowledge those actively working towards LGBTQ+ inclusive workplaces

As we gear up for the biggest event on the LGBTQ+ calendar, we would like to acknowledge the outstanding work of organisations that have worked hard throughout the year to meet the Australian best practice benchmarking tiers within the AWEI as well as the individuals who have been nominated by their peers for the difference that they have made to an inclusive culture.

We know that there's a rising anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment at the moment and a movement that seems to think that being inclusive at work is WOKE; but for LGBTQ+ people who have faced opposition both within the workplace and externally, the effort and work of all who strive to make workplaces inclusive and respectful of individual differences, could not be more appreciated.

LGBTQ+ inclusion has long been seen as the "litmus test" of workplace inclusion. It's one of the tough areas that can provoke intense opposition and can sometimes clash with the heartfelt beliefs and values of those from other cultures and/or religions. This "litmus test" of diversity and inclusion, creating inclusion for all is therefore critical—if we can succeed in these areas of D&I, it's very likely we'll excel in other areas of D&I as well.

Here at Pride in Diversity, the answer lies in the focus on workplace behaviours while acknowledging and respecting individual differences. If we can build a workplace culture that does not discriminate or exclude and one that focuses on workplace values of inclusion and respect, our workplaces will be a place where all can thrive. This requires celebrating those who exhibit our workplace values while making a commitment to calling out those behaviours that do not.

So, in the weeks leading up to the Australian LGBTQ+ inclusion awards, we would like to say thank you to all who have contributed to their organisational LGBTQ+ inclusion work via alignment with the AWEI national benchmark. In addition, we would also like to acknowledge the exceptional inclusivity of all individuals who have been nominated by their peers for an award.

We are proud to announce the following finalists for their outstanding efforts in creating an inclusive workplace, for their visibility, their contribution and for the public recognition by their peers. Congratulations to all, regardless of whether you have been named as a finalist or not. Your work is both acknowledged and appreciated.

2024 LGBTQ+ Inclusion Finalists are:

CEO OF THE YEAR

• David Locke, Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)
• Mike Burgess, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)
• Murat Dizdar, NSW Department of Education

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP AWARD

• Chris Waite, IHG
• Jess Huf, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia and New Zealand
• Nicky Bell, Services Australia
• George Hughes, The Star Entertainment Group

LGBTQ+ INCLUSIVE INNOVATION AWARD

• ABC’s Retracing the steps of the first Mardi Gras, Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
• American Express World Pride Activation: &Proud, American Express
• Queer Careers, EY Oceania
• Voices of Our People, KPMG Australia
• Sydney World Pride Activation, MinterEllison

LGBTQ+ ROLE MODEL OF THE YEAR

• Sarah Bateson, Bendigo and Adeliade Bank
• Damian Bachor, Clifford Chance
• Jed Shiels, Gold Coast Health
• Renee Shike, MinterEllison
• Kim Lee, NAB

NETWORK LEADER OF THE YEAR

• Luke Nixon, Brisbane City Council
• Federica Pastorino, Charter Hall
• Luke Butler, Compass Group
• Michelle Pallas, KPMG Australia
• Craig Dumas, The Star Entertainment Group

SALLY WEBSTER ALLY AWARD

• Anthony Massaro, Russell Kennedy Lawyers
• Hannah Venn-Brown, Services Australia
• Justine Knight, The GPT Group

SAPPHIRE INSPIRE AWARD

• Lisa Walton, Deloitte
• Maggi Hughes, EY Oceania
• Catherina Behan, Suncorp