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Embrace Difference Council develops thought-provoking DEI questions for leader discussion

Embrace Difference Council develops thought-provoking DEI questions for leader discussion

At a recent Drinks Association industry leaders event, attendees received printed copies of this year’s annual Diversity & Inclusion Report—a key initiative by the Embrace Difference Council. To kickstart discussion among industry leaders about the report’s findings on diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Council provided custom-made cards with thought-provoking questions. These cards encouraged everyone at the event to engage in meaningful conversations aimed at inspiring positive change.

The Embrace Difference Council explained the initiative on the cards: “In front of you is a copy of the Diversity & Inclusion Report 2024, which we invite you to explore. As you review the content, we have placed questions on the flip side of this card to encourage discussion with your peers that inspires real change.”

“This is an opportunity to engage in open, meaningful conversations about how we can keep driving progress and moving the dial on diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

Below are the thought-starter messages and questions that were listed on the cards:

  • 1 in 8 Australians are neurodivergent. How do you leverage the unique strengths of all employees?
  • Women in Australia earn 13.4% less than men, and only 17.1% of CEOs are women. What steps has your organisation taken to address the gender pay gap and promote gender equity?
  • 25% of Australian workers have experienced discrimination based on their gender. Have women in your organisation been consulted about whether they have experienced discrimination?
  • 33% of Australian workers have experienced workplace discrimination based on their cultural background, ethnicity, or race. How does your organisation support your culturally diverse team members?
  • Did you know 13% of women leave the workforce due to menopausal symptoms? As a relatively recent topic of discussion in the workplace, how does your organisation support women during this phase?
  • On average, women do over 9 hours a week more unpaid work and care than men. How does your leadership team challenge and dismantle entrenched gender norms in your organisation?
  • 35.7% of women quote caring duties as the main reason they are unavailable to start work or work more hours, compared to 7.3% of men. Does your organisation unconsciously reward presenteeism?

Following the event, Drinks Association CEO Georgia Lennon said: “Thank you to the Embrace Difference Council for developing this initiative to spark impactful conversations about how we can do more as an industry and where the opportunities and gaps lie that can lead to positive change in the workplace.”

“There were definitely some interesting and inspiring discussions, and I believe all the leaders present gained valuable insights that will give them plenty to think about.”

View the full 2024 Diversity and Inclusion Report here