Why diversity and inclusion are important to us
We value the diversity of our employees. We also know our workforce should reflect the communities we serve.
An inclusive and culturally capable department makes better decisions and works better together. It also provides safer, more accessible and responsive services.
To achieve this, we make our policies, practices and ways of working inclusive, culturally aware and responsive.
Our diverse workforce helps us make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of Australians.
We take action to improve diversity and inclusion across:
- gender
- disability and carers
- LGBTIQA+
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
- neurodiversity
- cultural diversity.
Our Workplace Gender Equality Agency employer statement shows our commitment to gender equality at work.
Our diversity and inclusion strategies
Our diversity and inclusion strategies support an inclusive and diverse workforce.
Inclusion Framework 2025–30
Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan 2025-28
Giving a voice to diversity
We support staff to help create a more inclusive workplace. Our diversity networks give employees a forum to share their lived experience, raise issues and connect with others. They also help shape practical action across the department.
Senior executive diversity champions support this work. They provide visible leadership, promote inclusion and help connect staff insights with department priorities.
Our staff diversity networks include:
- Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Network
- Disability and Carers Network
- Gender Equality Network
- Health Pride Network
- National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network, including Friends of the Network for non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
- Neurodiversity Network.
We encourage staff to join a network, take part in events and help create a workplace where everyone belongs and can do their best work.
Who we work with
We work with specialist organisations to strengthen our inclusion practices, measure our progress and achieve better outcomes for our employees.
We are members of, or work with:
- Australian Breastfeeding Association Our Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace accreditation helps employees to balance breastfeeding and work.
- Australian Disability Network Helping us make our workplace more accessible and inclusive for people with disability.
- Diversity Council Australia Providing evidence, resources and guidance on inclusive workplace practices.
- Pride in Diversity and Pride in Health + Wellbeing Supporting LGBTQIA+ inclusion at work. In 2026, we achieved Gold Employer status for the third year in a row through the Australian Workplace Equality Index.
- Reconciliation Australia Supporting our reconciliation commitments and helping build respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
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