RMIT leads as one of the nation’s top LGBTIQ+ inclusive workplaces

RMIT has received national recognition for developing Australia’s first professional network for researchers who identify as LGBTIQ+ or who research in the fields of gender diversity and sexuality.

Senior Lecturer in the School of Education Dr Emily Gray proudly accepted a Platinum Employer award on behalf of RMIT at the Pride in Diversity Australian Inclusion Awards in Sydney on Friday 27 May 2022.

Dr Gray co-founded The DGSS Research Network in 2020 to give RMIT staff who identify as, or research within the diverse genders, sexes and sexualities (DGSS) space a safe place to go, discuss work and meet other DGSS staff.

“To me, inclusivity is a practice that shapes my approach to research, teaching and leadership, and that’s something that we embody throughout the network", Gray said.

Though the network began at RMIT, interest grew quickly to welcome over 120 members from universities throughout Australia.

“Growing interest in the network demonstrates the demand for greater support and understanding of LGBTIQ+ researchers and associated research,” she said.

Dr Emily Gray accepts a Platinum Employer award on behalf of RMIT at the Pride in Diversity Australian Inclusion Awards in Sydney on Friday 27 May 2022.

“It was a great privilege to be able to attend the awards. The DGSS Research Network represents what can happen when we work together to make a positive social impact.”

The Australian LGBTIQ Inclusion Awards is an event celebrating and awarding Australia’s top organisations for LGBTIQ inclusion based on the results of the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI).

Platinum Employer recognition acknowledges the highest levels of performance within the Australian Workplace Equality Index over a sustained period.

RMIT is a member of Pride in Diversity and participates in the AWEI external benchmarking to accelerate actions and improve the experience of staff and students.

RMT achieved Employer of the Year for LGBTIQ inclusion in 2019 and 2020, along with recognition as a Gold Employer.

Watch the video to hear more from Dr Gray about the DGSS Research Network.

Story: Katie Comas

Society and Environment

02 June 2022

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02 June 2022

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RMIT leads as one of the nation’s top LGBTIQ+ inclusive workplaces