Diversity Council Australia (DCA) is conducting new research on social class inclusion and is inviting workers across Australia to take part in a survey to support this important work.
The study will inform an evidence-based approach for practical recommendations on how employers can address class-based inclusion and exclusion at work. Findings will draw on lived experience combined with the latest research on the topic.
Workers from a range of social class backgrounds are encouraged to share their lived experiences of class inclusion or exclusion. We'd also like to hear from HR and D&I practitioners on their key workplace initiatives, demographics and more.
The research is set to be released in mid-2025 and will build on DCA's 2020 Class at Work report, which made a compelling case for change.
The survey will be open until 15 September 2024. It takes a maximum of 15 minutes to complete and responses are anonymous and treated confidentially. We encourage you to take the chance to have your say and contribute to improving workplace inclusion in organisations across Australia. Participate in DCA's social class survey.
Does social class make a difference in the land of the fair go?
DCA's previous report on Class at Work revealed that employees from lower class backgrounds:
- are nearly twice as likely to experience discrimination and harassment at work
- are far more likely to be ignored in the workplace
- report less opportunity to progress in their role.
Conversely, when these employees are in an inclusive team (when compared to a non-inclusive team), they are:
- 17 times more likely to be in a team that works effectively
- 15 times more likely to be in a team that is innovative
- 10 times more likely to be in a team providing excellent customer service
- twice as likely to work extra hard.
