Aruma takes the next step in creating a safe LGBTQIA+ workplace

We’re thrilled to announce Aruma’s proud membership with Pride in Diversity, Australia’s leading LGBTQ+ inclusion program for workplaces.  

Pride in Diversity is a social inclusion initiative of ACON, and Australia’s first and only national not-for-profit employer support program for all aspects of LGBTQ workplace inclusion.  

A big factor in partnering with ACON, was their leadership and guidance in The Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) – the national benchmarking tool for LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion in Australia. 

“ACON’s Pride in Diversity membership provides Aruma with dedicated support to align our processes to the AWEI. It enables us to strengthen our inclusion efforts through expert guidance and gives us access to specialist training and resources,” said Lucy Bobby-Joy, a member of the LGBTQIA+ Focus group and Aruma’s Policy & Clinical Governance team. 

The LGBTQIA+ Focus group is part of Aruma’s broader Diversity and Inclusion Project, and the team are dedicated to championing awareness, representation, and advocacy.  

They ensure that LGBTQIA+ voices are heard & valued at every level of the organisation and this partnership will help them take that to the next level.  

“We’re currently preparing for the AWEI submission process so we can formally benchmark Aruma’s LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion efforts against national standards and industry best practices. This will provide us with evidence-based feedback and a clear roadmap for continuous improvement. In doing so, we might also be recognised as an industry leader through the AWEI Awards,” said Lucy. 

This partnership will also enable us to provide staff training, guidance and support wherever it’s needed, and celebrate the wins along our journey.  

The LGBTQIA+ Focus Group recently encouraged Club Aruma Hubs around the organisation to celebrate Pride Month, and the Nowra team pulled together a fantastic event.