Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Branch

The primary aim of the Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Branch is to promote a working environment that values diversity and inclusion and is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for all ANU staff. The Diversity and Inclusion Branch's main target groups are women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with disability.

The Branch addresses barriers and obstacles that people from these groups might encounter in the workplace through:

• involvement and consultation;
• data analysis and policy development;
• awareness-raising campaigns; and
• providing advice, support and guidance on equality and diversity-related issues.

The Branch co-ordinates the University's planning and reporting responsibilities under the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Act and the National Disability Strategy. The Branch also promotes awareness of diversity issues through maintenance of the Equity@ANU website, conducting information sessions and arranging events to celebrate occasions such as International Women's Day and National Aborigines and Islanders Day observance Committee (NAIDOC).

Recent projects undertaken by the Branch include:

• establishment of the Early Career Academic Women's Mentoring Program;
• establishment of the Academic Women's Career Advancement Fund;
• review of the Indigenous Employment policy guidelines; and
• review of the outcomes of the 2005-2008 ANU Disability Action Plan.

Projects underway include:

• establishment of a Diversity Network;
• establishment of an Indigenous Advisory Network;
• development of a Disability Action Plan for the period 2009-2012;
• a series of lunchtime information sessions on topical disability employment issues; and
• development of a ‘baby pack' to assist parents balance their work and family responsibilities.

Associate Director: Steven Dover

Manager or Head: Inge Saris