Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to promote a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and respectful environment where all individuals have fair opportunities to participate, contribute, and succeed within the organisation.

The organisation values different backgrounds, perspectives, experiences, and contributions and is committed to preventing unfair discrimination and exclusion.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all board members, directors, committee members, officers, employees, members, volunteers, contractors, consultants, and representatives of the organisation.

It applies to organisational activities, meetings, events, programmes, communications, recruitment, appointments, and other activities connected to the organisation.

3. Diversity

The organisation recognises and values diversity across characteristics and experiences, including:

• Race, ethnicity, and cultural background.

• Gender and gender identity.

• Age.

• Disability and accessibility needs.

• Religion, belief, or conscience.

• Sexual orientation.

• Nationality and social background.

• Professional and educational experiences.

• Different perspectives, skills, and lived experiences.

4. Equity and Fair Opportunity

The organisation is committed to providing fair opportunities for participation, development, leadership, and access to organisational programmes and resources.

Where appropriate, reasonable measures may be taken to address barriers that prevent individuals or groups from participating fully in organisational activities.

5. Inclusion and Respect

All individuals are expected to contribute to an environment where people feel respected, valued, and able to participate.

The organisation does not tolerate exclusion, discrimination, harassment, bullying, intimidation, or conduct that unfairly prevents individuals from participating.

6. Accessibility

The organisation will seek to make its activities, communications, meetings, and programmes reasonably accessible to individuals with disabilities or other accessibility requirements.

Where practical and appropriate, reasonable accommodations may be considered to support meaningful participation.

7. Recruitment and Participation

Where the organisation is responsible for recruitment, appointments, committees, leadership opportunities, or other selection processes, decisions should be based on relevant qualifications, skills, experience, organisational needs, and applicable requirements.

The organisation will seek to provide fair access to opportunities and avoid unjustified barriers to participation.

8. Responsibilities

All individuals covered by this policy are expected to:

• Treat others with dignity and respect.

• Support an inclusive environment.

• Avoid discriminatory or exclusionary conduct.

• Respect different perspectives and experiences.

• Follow applicable organisational policies.

• Raise concerns about discrimination or exclusion through appropriate channels.

The organisation is responsible for promoting inclusive practices and addressing legitimate concerns appropriately.

9. Reporting Concerns

Individuals who experience or witness discrimination, harassment, exclusion, or other conduct inconsistent with this policy are encouraged to report the matter through the organisation’s appropriate reporting channels.

Concerns may be addressed under the Grievance Policy, Whistleblower Policy, Non-Discrimination & Harassment Policy, or other applicable procedures.

10. Confidentiality and Protection

Reports and concerns will be handled as confidentially as reasonably possible.

The organisation does not tolerate retaliation against individuals who raise genuine concerns or participate in an investigation in good faith.

11. Non-Compliance

Conduct that breaches this policy may result in appropriate corrective or disciplinary action in accordance with the organisation’s applicable policies and procedures.

12. Related Policies

This policy should be read together with the organisation’s:

• Constitution and/or Bylaws

• Code of Conduct

• Non-Discrimination & Harassment Policy

• Grievance Policy

• Whistleblower Policy

• Confidentiality Policy

• Member in Good Standing Policy

• Conflict of Interest & Disclosure Policy