Assignment: Lead Diversity & Inclusion

Identifying diversity issues and managing these effectively in the workplace through contemporary initiatives and sound procedures

Instructions

This assessment consists of a series of tasks which include

1. Research of legislation - key aspects, requirements and complaint processes

2. Identification of current initiatives and the potential for integrating these in the management of a diverse workforce

3. Development of a diversity policy which can be implemented in a diverse workplace based on the values identified from the current projects and based on legal requirements identified

4. Development of an anti-bullying/anti-harassment policy with clear procedures for informal and formal complaint stages

You are required to address all tasks set out below. The website link provided is current as of 27 September 2014 including the information relating to current initiatives.

Whilst EEO legislation covers the general aspects related to Equal Opportunity Employment, the intention of this project is to identify contemporary aspects which would be beneficial for a diverse team in the workplace. You are encouraged to evaluate current programs and identify which aspects can be implemented in a sustainable manner in industry.

The link and information provided on the websites are sources of information and all responses you provide here must be clearly referenced. Policies and procedures must be your own work.

Your trainer will provide you with feedback within agreed timelines as outlined to you.

Task

I. Identify the purpose of the following Acts - what is covered, who does this apply to and what is the relevance in a workplace?

1. Age Discrimination Act
2. Disability Discrimination Act
3. Racial Discrimination Act
4. Sex Discrimination Act
5. Australian Human Rights Commission Act

II. Current projects that have been implemented as part of the national strategies for each of the following acts can be found on the relevant areas. Review these current projects and analyse the key factors and campaigns which would be beneficial and could be adapted for managing a diverse workplace. Which potential benefits for a workplace can you find in each of these projects?

1. Age Discrimination Act
2. Disability Discrimination Act
3. Racial Discrimination Act
4. Sex Discrimination Act

III. Choose 1 of the following options:

1. Review your existing diversity policy in the workplace (if one exists) and compare what is included to what should be included. Identify what is potentially lacking and which of the aspects you have researched could be included

2. Given consideration to the requirements you have identified in Question 1 and the positives you have analysed and identified in Question 2; develop a diversity policy which sufficiently covers all aspects required to manage diversity in a contemporary, modern workplace which fosters effective communication and promotes harmony and an inclusive team

IV. Develop a bullying/harassment policy that can be used in your workplace. The policy needs to include:

(You may access and reference you state WHS legislation or Fairwork for specific requirements in your state and the following link provides a checklist: Bullying Policy Checklist for employers page - Comcare)

1. The legal requirements set out by law

2. Examples of what is defined as bullying and harassment and what is not

3. A clear statement that will outline the processes and procedures to be followed in case of any incident including the stages of informal and formal procedures

4. A statement regarding how you will implement this policy in the workplace and ensure that staff are trained and aware on an ongoing basis, as part of an integrated consultation process.