Gallagher Bassett (GB) was recently accepted as a member of the Diversity Council Australia (DCA), recognising the importance we place on diversity in the workplace.

The DCA is the only independent and not-for-profit workplace diversity advisor available to businesses in Australia. They lead public debate, develop the latest Australian research and deliver diversity practice resources to its members.

GB’s Managing Director of Australia, John McNamara, commended GB’s membership.

‘At GB, we believe our people are our strength and we place a strong emphasis on diversity in the workplace. All people, no matter what their background, have a right to an enjoyable, safe and healthy workplace.’

‘I’m proud to see GB’s values being formally recognised through this membership.’

As members, GB will have access to valuable information and cutting-edge resources, which support not only our staff, but our clients as well.

GB has recently rolled out training to help clients promote greater diversity in their own workplaces, through our myGBeducation platform. The training includes sessions on reducing bullying in the workplace, as well as training designed to promote age-diverse workplaces.

The DCA has a number of ‘key diversity areas’ that include gender, cultural diversity, disability, age, indigenous, multi-faith and more.

In any workplace, diversity and antidiscrimination practices are important. Valuing diversity increases productivity, and improves a company’s reputation. Below are some of the ways diversity can benefit an organisation:

• Greater employee satisfaction leads to improved productivity and profitability.
• Reduced employee turnover cuts the cost of replacing skilled and experienced people.
• Having access to a variety of different perspectives increases creativity and innovation.
• Talented employees are attracted to diverse companies and want to stay.
• A broader range of customers and suppliers want to do business with diverse companies, which can open up new markets and opportunities.

In the event of discrimination or inappropriate workplace behaviour, there are serious consequences:

• Extensive legislation protects people against discrimination.
• Complaints can lead to costly litigation and compensation claims
• Unwanted staff turnover
• Damage to an employer’s reputation.

‘We are looking forward to working with the DCA to plan our diversity strategy and use their expertise and resources to implement innovative practices that will improve the way our business operates’ John McNamara said.