Insurance Australia Group (IAG), in collaboration with Diversity Council Australia (DCA), will present the 2024 Diversity Debate in Sydney on Oct. 22.
DCA is an independent, non-profit organisation that advocates for diversity and inclusion in Australian workplaces. With over 1,300 member organisations, It provides research, events, and expertise to help companies create more inclusive environments.
The event, a key feature in Australia’s diversity and inclusion (D&I) agenda, will address a central question: “Is polarisation holding diversity and inclusion back?”
The debate will focus on whether societal divisions are slowing down progress toward workplace inclusion or if these divides are instead driving a necessary urgency for change.
As organisations across Australia face growing challenges around diversity, the discussion will examine how polarisation is influencing corporate and workplace dynamics.
The event, to be held at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf, will include a two-course dinner and networking opportunities.
Journalist Patricia Karvelas will moderate the debate, which will feature prominent industry and public figures.
IAG is the lead sponsor, with support from Suncorp Groupand Telstra.
The debate will feature two teams tackling the role of polarisation in D&I efforts.
Arguing that polarisation is hindering progress will be:
On the opposing side, contending that polarisation may actually help advance D&I, will be:
DCA CEO Lisa Annese emphasised the importance of the debate in light of growing divisions in society.
“This event is a unique opportunity to hear from industry experts and participate in impactful conversations aimed at breaking down barriers during a time when it seems there is more to divide us than unite us,” she said.
DCA chair Sunita Gloster noted that businesses are increasingly facing challenges linked to societal polarisation.
“Workplaces across Australia are facing increasing challenges due to polarisation and are searching for ways to ensure all employees feel safe, supported, and included,” she said, adding that the debate will address those issues and provide fresh perspectives.
The 2024 DCA and IAG Diversity Debate will include networking and canapés followed by a formal dinner and debate. Tickets are available through the Diversity Council Australia website.
In parallel with the debate on D&I, there has been a growing call for reforms to how Indigenous data is collected and used in Australia.
A recent report commissioned by the Actuaries Institute, titled “Getting to Grips with Indigenous Data,” advocates for a comprehensive shift in how data concerning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is managed.
The report, authored by actuaries Hugh Miller and Laura Dixie, highlighted the need for “Indigenous data sovereignty,” a concept that would allow Indigenous communities to have greater control over data relevant to their lands, cultures, and knowledge.
The report criticised current data collection methods for adhering too strictly to Western frameworks, which fail to capture the full range of Indigenous experiences.
