The Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) has launched its 2018 Australian Public Service Diversity and Gender Equality Awards.
Nominations are open until 21 September and recognise outstanding contributions to workplace diversity across the Australian Public Service (APS).
The awards to be presented will be:
Individual award:
Entries in this category are open to all APS staff who have championed diversity and equality of opportunity in their organisation and who have shown vision and leadership resulting in genuine cultural change.
Last year’s winner in this category was Justin Lokhorst of the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Justin’s approach was to encourage a culture of open discussion and to challenge negative perceptions of staff from diverse backgrounds.
Mr Lokhorst openly discussed his own hearing impairment to create an environment in which others could speak safely.
He gave up his time to coach, mentor, and assist staff inside and outside his own section, and was described by these staff as an “inspirational leader”.
Department/Agency award:
Open to all APS Departments and Agencies that have made significant contribution or progress in one, some or all of the following areas — Indigenous employment; disability employment; LGBTI employment; Culturally and Linguistically Diverse employment.
The 2017 winner was the National Disability Insurance Agency.
Network award:
Open to all APS internal and cross-Agency employee networks that advance diversity and inclusion matters within the APS.
The 2017 winner was the Australian Taxation Offices’ LGBTI+ employee network ATO Making Inclusion Count (ATOMIC).
Gender equality award:
Open to all APS staff, networks, and Departments and Agencies that have made significant progress or contribution to addressing gender inequality in the APS.
The 2017 award was won by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
More information and details on how to lodge a nomination can be made at the APSC website at this PS News link.
