Catholic Health Australia today congratulated two of its member organisations for being recognised nationally as inclusive employers.
The Diversity Council Australia (DCA) named CHA members Southern Cross Care NSW & ACT and MercyCare throughout WA as an Inclusive Employer for 2024-2025.
This year over 60 organisations were recognised as Inclusive Employers across the nation, highlighting their commitment to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces.
“Catholic organisations such as Southern Cross Care NSW & ACT and MercyCare strive everyday to be respectful and inclusive employers,” said Catholic Health Australia Deputy Chair Steve Teulen.
“Diversity and inclusivity are important for employees as well as the residents of our aged care homes.
“We want our services to properly reflect the communities and ministries in which we serve and to lead by example, so people feel safe, seen and respected.”
The Inclusive Employer Index enables organisations to comprehensively assess and monitor the state of diversity and inclusion in their workforce.
To make the list, workplaces must demonstrate their commitment to diversity and inclusion by inviting employees to complete an in-depth survey to map the state of inclusion in their organisation. They must also achieve results that exceed national benchmarks on a series of key measures.
Southern Cross Care NSW & ACT Chief People Officer Alethea Lee said the results reflect the organisation's rich diversity and commitment to creating an environment where all employees can thrive.
“Every day, we work to expand and strengthen initiatives that consciously attract and retain people from all backgrounds, bringing varied perspectives that enrich our workplace,” Alethea said.
“We are deeply committed to fostering an environment where team members feel welcomed, safe, and respected - a place where they are encouraged to share ideas openly and embrace diverse perspectives.
“Together, we strive to build a culture that values every voice, fostering growth, collaboration, and belonging.”
MercyCare’s Executive Director of Family and Community services, Jennie Burns, said: “An inclusive workplace empowers teams, drives innovation, and builds a brighter future. Being named an Inclusive Employer for 2024-25 inspires us to break barriers and create opportunities for all.”
Notes to editors: Catholic Health Australia (CHA) is Australia’s largest non-government grouping of health and aged care services accounting for 63 hospitals and approximately 10 per cent of hospital-based healthcare in Australia. Our members, who are not-for-profit, also provide around 30 percent of private hospital care, 5 percent of public hospital care, 12 percent of aged care facilities, and 20 percent of home care and support for the elderly.
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