The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) have been awarded Bronze Tier Status in the 2023-26 Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), a key national measure of LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
Commenting on the award, the ACCC said the acknowledgment highlights the efforts of both organisations in creating a more inclusive workplace for all employees, with a particular focus on fostering a supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ staff.
As part of their ongoing commitment, the ACCC and AER have rolled out several initiatives aimed at improving workplace inclusivity.
Their PRIDE Network has played a central role in these efforts, overseeing updates to the ACCC/AER Pride Plan and refreshing policies related to gender affirmation.
Additionally, the agencies have revised parental leave and domestic violence policies to ensure they are inclusive of LGBTQIA+ families, and introduced new internal communication platforms to support staff in these communities.
Insurance Business (IB) recently released its annual list of Top Insurance Employers for 2024, recognising insurance companies in Australia and New Zealand that have demonstrated a commitment to creating inclusive and positive work environments.
Among the Australian companies that made the 2024 list are IQumulate Premium Funding, Arch Insurance Australia, AXA XL, HDI Global SE Australia, Rivers Insurance Brokers, Arteva Funding, and BAC Insurance Brokers.
The full report detailing the top insurance employers is available on the Insurance Business Australia and Insurance Business New Zealand websites.
The recognition of the ACCC, AER, and various insurance companies reflects a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion across multiple sectors in Australia, with organisations increasingly integrating these values into their operational and workplace practices.
