Media releases

Westpac named number one employer nationally for LGBTI inclusion

 

Westpac Group has been named the number one employer for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) employee inclusion at the 2016 Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Awards today in Sydney.

 

Additionally, Westpac Group Executive, Chief Executive BT Financial Group, Brad Cooper, has been named Inclusion Champion of the Year.

 

Mr Cooper said "I am proud of Westpac Group's efforts to champion inclusion, and honoured we have been recognised for our work in creating a truly inclusive culture for all employees."

 

"Westpac is a workplace where employees can be comfortable to be themselves - where they feel appreciated for their individual contributions, without regard for sexual orientation or gender identity. And importantly, where they feel safe and respected," Mr Cooper said.

 

The AWEI awards were established to encourage employers and LGBTI network leaders to develop solutions, provide training, set challenges and improve the overall inclusivity of their workplace policies, practices and culture.

 

Westpac Group has developed a range of initiatives focusing on inclusion. One of the most successful internal campaigns 'You Being You' encourages all employees to bring their whole self to work, resulting in a year on year increase in LGBTI employee engagement.

 

"This recognition goes to the core of our vision to be a globally recognised service company for inclusion and diversity, helping our customers, communities and people to prosper and grow".

 

"Special thanks must also be given to our employee-led action group, GLOBAL. GLOBAL gives the LGBTI community a voice and are committed to workplace equality.

 

Our GLOBAL members contribute significant time and effort over and above their day jobs to support a diverse and inclusive workplace for all. I am proud to represent GLOBAL at an executive level and this recognition is a testament to the team's hard work" Mr Cooper said.

 

This is the fourth year Westpac Group has entered the AWEI awards.

 

Further information 
*GLOBAL is Westpac Group's employee-led action group for LGBTI employees and their allies. GLOBAL's mission is to help support Westpac Group's diversity vision by building a work environment that values diversity and to create a culture of quality and inclusion.

 

LGBTI Workplace Inclusion Champion 
This award category relates specifically to LGBTI workplace inclusion and is open to nominations for individuals, who within the 2015 calendar year, have significantly contributed to the organisation's LGBTI workplace inclusion initiatives or an inclusive culture for LGBTI employees.