Equity & Diversity Annual Report – 2003 1. Equity & Diversity in the Bank
The RBA's formal commitment to the principles of merit and equal opportunity in the workplace goes back to the inception of its EEO program in 1984. The diagram below details the legal obligations that underpin the program. The various pieces of legislation have provided a basis for the introduction of policies and practices that have ensured a fair and equitable workplace.
Workplace Diversity Plan | Disability Action Plan | |
---|---|---|
Equal Employment Opportunity (Commonwealth Authorities) Act 1987 | Workplace Relations Act 1996 | Disability Discrimination Act 1992 |
Human Rights & Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986 | Occupational Health & Safety (Commonwealth Employment) Act 1991 | Commonwealth Disability Strategy 1994 (revised 1999) |
Sex Discrimination Act 1984 | Privacy Act 1988 | |
Racial Discrimination Act 1975 | Freedom of Information Act 1989 |
Over time, whilst the legislative framework has remained the foundation of the RBA policy, the terminology has altered to reflect changing community attitudes and expectations. Diversity encompasses all aspects of life that individuals bring to the workplace. Diversity management encourages tolerance, appreciation and the valuing of difference. The RBA has two plans that reflect its commitment to a diverse workplace – the Workplace Diversity Plan and the Disability Action Plan. This is the first year that these two plans have been consolidated into the one report for review.