Managing Diversity
Introduction
The Department is committed to diversity and inclusion in providing the highest level of service to the Victorian community and in reflecting the diversity of the community across its workforce.
Diversity management recognises and accepts that the workforce is changing along with the community and environment in which it operates. It emphasises the importance of valuing differences and maximising the benefits of diversity in a planned way.
Diversity management is a key component of effective human resource management. It focuses on improving the performance of the organisation and building a culture of respect and inclusion. Some of the dimensions of diversity include gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, age, family/carer status, religion and disability. Respect for diversity also embraces the range of individual skills, educational qualifications, work experience and background, languages and other relevant attributes and experiences which differentiate individuals.
Diversity in the workplace
Diversity management is being driven by demographic changes in the community and workforce including:
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increased participation by women in the workforce
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increased participation by employees with 'carer' responsibilities
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an ageing workforce
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changes in the family structures of employees eg. sole parents, fewer men and women in traditional family roles
- high levels of cultural and linguistic diversity.
Benefits of diversity
Diversity management provides significant organisational benefits including:
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increased ability to attract and retain skilled employees
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broadened recruitment pool
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responsive service provision
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higher staff morale and reduced absenteeism
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enhanced community relations and reputation
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positive communication and relationships
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improved team functioning and performance
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creativity and innovation
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improved staff health and well being
- enhanced equality of opportunity.
Diversity Plan
A diversity plan might focus on the following:
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Diversity and equity principles are incorporated into strategic and business planning, position descriptions, selection criteria, accountabilities and capabilities
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The organisational climate supports and encourages diversity and equity
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The workplace environment fosters fairness and equity in employment and does not tolerate discrimination and harassment
- The workplace aims to be representative of the community it serves and meets whole of government requirements for target groups.
Other Resources
- Training - Diversity@Work
- Training - Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission Workshops
- Department of Planning and Community Development Diversity Register
Related Topics
- Managing Diversity in Schools
- Equal Opportunity
- Gender Identity
- Sexual Orientation
- Flexible Work for Work-Life Balance
- Disability
- Cultural & Linguistic Diversity
Contact Information