MetLife Australia has pledged alongside other organisations to make workplaces respectful and safe for everyone as part of the Diversity Council Australia's (DCA) #IStandForRespect campaign.
A new member of DCA, MetLife has committed to standing against all forms of gendered harassment and violence as well as taking steps to address sexual and sex-based harassment in the workplace.
MetLife Australia chief executive officer Richard Nunn emphasised the significance of creating a workplace where “all voices are heard, respected, and valued.”
“We believe not just in diversity but also in inclusion,” Nunn said. “We know this is an important part of being a workplace where people can bring their whole selves to work and thrive and succeed at MetLife. That's why we've joined DCA as a member and pledged our support to this campaign.”
DCA's research revealed that women continue to face barriers to succeeding in the workplace, with culturally diverse women facing structural barriers to accessing leadership and still subject to harassment and discrimination in the workplace. Women who are LGBTQ+ also experience sexual harassment if they come out at work, while older women are often overlooked for promotion and retiring with half the savings of men.
DCA is calling on organisations to take the #IStandForRespect pledge to help women in Australia.
“We are calling for these things not only because respectful workplaces, free of harassment and violence, are critical for business success and the productivity of the Australian economy – but because it is simply the right thing to do,” said DCA CEO Lisa Annese.
