As we commence Pride Month, we are thrilled to announce that VU has received gold recognition at the Australian Workplace Equality Index Awards.
The Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) is a nationwide benchmark on LGBTQ workplace inclusion. It includes the largest and only national employee survey, which measures the overall impact of LGBTIQA+ inclusion initiatives for all employees.
By participating in AWEI, VU can ensure that our Pride inclusion initiatives are in line with best practice in Australia.
Timeline:
- 2021 VU received Bronze recognition for the first time
- 2022 Silver recognition
- 2023 non-submission year
- 2024 Gold recognition
The pace at which these recognitions have been achieved demonstrates our deep and continuing commitment towards building a thriving place to study and work for all at VU. LGBTQIA+ inclusion is central to our strategic goal of Progressive Inclusivity.
It's absolutely terrific to see VU awarded Gold in the AWEI Awards. From Bronze in 2021 to Gold in 2024 speaks volumes to the efforts and commitment of the VU Pride Network, now with close to 150 members, and the passion of the network to effect change and help evolve processes to make VU a place where students and staff can be their authentic selves every day.
- Tessa Benson, Director Advisory and HQ and Pride Network co-chair
VU's key achievements building LGBTIQA+ and gender diverse inclusion:
- Name Change Project
- LGBTIQA+ Student Wellbeing Survey Report (see below)
- Growth of VU's Pride Network to 141 members
- Development of eLearn module Understanding and Celebrating LGBTIQA+ Identities for both students and staff
- VU invited to present at ACON's Pride in Practice Conference 2023
- Cohort-specific education on LGBTIQA+ awareness and Trans awareness
- Development of VU's Gender Affirmation guide and Gender Affirmation Procedure
- Official participation at:
- Midsumma Pride March since 2021
- Midsumma Carnival 2023
- Transgender Victoria Jobs Fair 2023 and 2024
- Western Bulldogs AFLW Pride Match 2022-2023
- University Basketball League Pride Round
