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Employers making discrimination history
Issue 162 - 18 Sep 2008
NATIONAL
ISSUE 162, September 18, 2008: Businesses across Australia are being called on to celebrate workplace diversity by nominating their business for the 8th Annual Diversity@Work Awards.
With such a diverse population, Australian businesses have the chance to stand up and be recognised on the world stage for their commitment to fair and equal treatment in the workplace.
One of Australia's leading voices on social justice, supporter of the Awards and CEO of World Vision Australia, Reverend Tim Costello, says the award gives all Australians and Australian businesses the rare chance to celebrate diversity.
"Celebration and acknowledgement of diversity not only rewards those businesses who have succeeded in fostering an all-inclusive workplace, but also pays respect to those across Australia who are attempting the challenge," says Rev Costello.
"Australian businesses are in a great position to lead by example in their community. By nominating, business leaders send a positive message to the country that discrimination in any form is unacceptable," added Rev Costello.
If successful in their nomination, businesses will have the opportunity to receive their award from international human rights activist Sir Bob Geldof, who will be coming out to Australia in November to be the keynote speaker at the 8th Annual Diversity@Work Awards.
Diversity@Work CEO, Mark Heaysman adds "We are constantly challenged by the things we see in our community that are not always inclusive, and may be discriminatory. At times this makes us feel helpless, like the problem is out of our control or influence.
"This is why it is important that we acknowledge and celebrate diversity in every form, and empower each other to make a difference - not just in the workplace, but throughout the country," he says.
"Stereotyping or discriminating according to ability or background is unacceptable in today's business environment. While achieving diversity in the workplace can be seen as a challenge for some businesses, I would ask them to use their commercial logic and sense of what is right to transform their business by improving diversity, inclusion, accessibility and human rights," said Heaysman.
The 8th annual Diversity@Work Awards recognise and reward the efforts of individuals, teams and organisations who encourage diversity and inclusion in their workplace.
Nominations for the 8th Diversity@Work Awards can be made through www.diversityatwork.com.au. Nominations close on 26 September and the award winners will be announced by Sir Bob Geldof at a Gala Dinner held on 13 November 2008 in Melbourne.
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