Apply now to be named one of Australia’s most inclusive workplaces

Diversity Council Australia is inviting expressions of interest for the 2025-2026 Inclusive Employer Index, offering organisations the chance to be recognised for their commitment to workplace inclusion.

Run in partnership with Diversity Atlas, the Inclusive Employer Index is Australia’s only inclusion index run by an independent peak body that enables organisations to measure, benchmark, and report on workplace inclusion across nine diversity dimensions.

The Inclusive Employer Index provides participants with a ready-to-use survey designed to collect valuable data about their workforce. The survey is comprehensive, anonymous and saves time by eliminating the need to design your own. It prioritises privacy and data safety, while also helping employers meet WGEA certifications, including questions aligned with its Employer of Choice for Gender Equality and Employer Committed to Gender Equality requirements.

Employers who exceed the national benchmarks will earn the title of being a DCA 2025-2026 Inclusive Employer – a mark of excellence publicly promoted by DCA. Recognised organisations can proudly showcase the Inclusive Employer logo, demonstrating their commitment to inclusion to employees, partners, and the wider community.

“The Inclusive Employer Index Survey provides us with clarity around where we are doing well, and where we can continue to grow as we strive to be the best place to work and provide leadership across the WA public sector,” Jodi Cant, Director General, Department of Finance, Government of Western Australia said.

“Building an inclusive workplace is not just a nice-to-have – it’s key to attracting and retaining talent and is strongly linked to business success,” said DCA CEO Catherine Hunter.

“The Inclusive Employer Index is a powerful diagnostic tool that helps organisations understand their strengths, pinpoint areas for improvement, and track progress over time. It’s a chance to demonstrate leadership and a genuine commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued and respected.”

What’s in it for your organisation?

• Gain insights into your employees’ real experiences of inclusion and exclusion
• access an interactive dashboard to explore and benchmark your workforce data
• comprehensive benchmarking against national data, DCA members, and your
specific industry (where available)
• support resources including webinars, communication templates and resources
• support D&I-related reporting and strategic planning.

In 2024–2025, over 60 organisations were recognised, spanning from health and wellness, retail, and transport to major media organisations, law firms and charities.

With inclusion proven to be key to performance, innovation, wellbeing and talent retention, participating in the Inclusive Employer Index isn’t just a signal of good intentions, it’s a
strategic investment.

Expressions of interest are open now and will close on Monday 1 September 2025.