Inclusion and diversity
Inclusion and diversity underpins Australian Red Cross’ purpose to bring people and communities together in times of need and build on community strengths.
An organisation which reflects the diversity of the Australian population, will better understand its communities, deliver improved programs and activities by drawing on a diversity of experiences and thinking, and be more inclusive for all.
Our approach
By embracing the diverse identities and lived experiences of employees, volunteers, members and the communities we serve, we will continue to strengthen an inclusive and welcoming culture where every person is respected and valued, feels safe to be culturally confident, and where belonging is a core Australian Red Cross experience.
Our strategy
Our Inclusion and Diversity strategy is centred on four strategic goals:
1. Impact through inclusion
Inclusion and diversity practices will be a golden thread running through the organisation and strategic focus areas: Climate Adaption, Emergency Services and Disasters, Migration, Community Activities and Programs, International Programs, and International Humanitarian Law.
2. Inclusive people
Inclusive communications and networks of empowered people, will build the inclusion capability of all Australian Red Cross people, so that achieving belonging as a core Australian Red Cross experience is everyone’s responsibility.
3. Equitable structures and systems
We will increase the diversity of Australian Red Cross people. We will be vigilant about identifying biases and barriers in our systems, structures and culture, so they can be removed and enable everyone to thrive.
4. Connection through inclusion
Australian Red Cross will be known by all stakeholders as an inclusive and welcoming organisation, and an Inclusion and Diversity leader.
The strategy is informed by the findings and voices of over 2,200 Australian Red Cross people, who participated in the first stage of a broad ranging inclusion and diversity change program in late 2021 – May 2022. This deep listening exercise was undertaken to understand who its people were and how they experience Australian Red Cross structures, systems and culture.
Inclusion & Diversity Strategy 2023–2027 [.pdf]
Inclusion & Diversity Strategy 2023-2027 (Accessible Version)[.docx]
Diversity of our leaders
Increasing the diversity of Australian Red Cross Board and Executive in recent years has been intentional and continues to be a focus. The table below outlines the Board and Executive’s current representation across a range of diversity categories.
Board1
15 members
Executive2
11 members
Women
9
6
Men
7
5
First Nations people
1
1
Born outside of Australia
2
2
Fluent in language other than English
3
6
Age
29–79 (52 av.)
38–66 (51 av.)
1 Current at 22 July 2024. 2 Current at 12 December 2023.
Contact us
We welcome feedback. Get in touch by emailing inclusion@redcross.org.au
Careers
Red Cross employs people who reflect the diversity of Australia. Take a look at our latest job opportunities »
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