Workplace inclusion still out of reach for many LGBTQIA+ Australians

Thursday 5 June

Despite growing awareness, many Australians who identify as LGBTQIA+ continue to face discrimination in the workplace. Globally, 2 in 5 of this population report experiencing non-inclusive behaviours (40%) and sexual harassment (39%) at work¹, highlighting how far employers still have to go on achieving equality at work.

Further, LGBTQIA+ employees are less likely to feel they can be themselves at work (10.6%), to feel a sense of belonging (9.8%), and to feel mentally well (9%) compared to non-LGBTQIA+ colleagues².

These figures highlight the persistent challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people in the workplace and the urgent need for more inclusive, supportive employment pathways.

As Pride Month (June) is celebrated across the country, atWork Australia is recognising the resilience of LGBTQIA+ individuals who have built fulfilling careers with the support of inclusive employers and dedicated job services.

atWork Australia is dedicated to supporting clients from the LGBTQIA+ community to ensure they have equal opportunities in the workplace. They strive to create an inclusive environment where clients feel they can bring their full selves to their appointments.

atWork Australia strive to create this same inclusive environment for their own workforce with 78% of all staff surveyed felt that they belonged and 10% of their workforce identifying as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community as highlighted in a company voluntary survey[*].

atWork Australia client, Miranda, 30 years old from Hawkesbury, NSW, is one such individual who has overcome significant workplace barriers. Miranda, who identifies as bisexual and lives with autism, has faced discrimination at times during her career, but today is thriving in her role at NADO’s (Nepean Area Disabilities Organisation) Sensory Store, based in Penrith NSW, a job she truly values and that aligns with her skills and needs.

Miranda’s employment journey began at 17, when she first entered the workforce. She faced a range of positive experiences and challenges in jobs because she is neurodivergent and bisexual.

"I’ve worked since I was 17, but I never stayed in a job for longer than a year," Miranda says. "I didn’t always fit in with the team. I have autism and am bisexual and I’m very comfortable talking about it, but some employers don’t like that."

She recalls one experience at a childcare centre where she was told to hide her rainbow-coloured bag, a request that stung deeply. "I had to walk an hour to work, and when I got there, I was told to change my bag," Miranda shares.

Miranda also experienced challenges relating to her disability, including being told by an employer to never mention her autism. "One employer explicitly told me not to talk about my disability because it would make parents think I was ‘stupid,’" she says

However, Miranda’s life changed when she connected with atWork Australia, which provided the support and resources necessary for her to find a role that truly fits and makes her feel supported.

"atWork Australia listened to me in ways no other employment support ever had," Miranda explains. "They took the time to understand what I needed and where I could thrive."

With their guidance, Miranda found a position at NADO’s Sensory Store, a workplace that not only values her but also supports her growth. The Sensory Store is a retail and support hub within NADO that provides sensory tools, toys, and resources for individuals with sensory processing needs, making it a role that reflects Miranda’s lived experience and passions. "I feel so grateful to be part of this team and to be in a workplace that truly sees my strengths, supports my goals and makes me feel like I belong," she says.

"The support I’ve received, especially around my disability, has been incredible. I finally feel like I’m part of the team and that I fit in."

Today, Miranda thrives in her role, where she feels supported both professionally and personally. "For me, working in an inclusive environment has allowed me to be my true self," she shares. "I feel valued for who I am – both as a bisexual woman and as an individual living with autism."

Miranda’s story is a powerful example of how inclusive workplaces, supported by services like atWork Australia, can make a transformative difference in the lives of individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community and those living with disabilities.

atWork Australia is committed to empowering individuals to overcome barriers in the workplace and connect them with employers who recognise their skills and value.

To learn more about atWork Australia’s DES (Disability Employment Services) support, visit: https://www.atworkaustralia.com.au/disability-employment-services/.

ENDS

About atWork Australia

atWork Australia has been delivering employment services on behalf of the Australian Government since 2003. From more than 300 locations around the nation, atWork Australia delivers Disability Employment Services (DES) and Workforce Australia connecting people and business so both can thrive.

Collaborating with more than 3,500 employers across the country, atWork Australia has connected more than 20,000 Australians with meaningful and sustainable employment across six states over the last 12 months, across a diverse range of industries and occupations. Find out more at www.atworkaustralia.com.au.

References

1. Commission for Gender Equality in the Public Sector. Chapter 5: Gender and LGBTIQ+ Employees. 18 Mar 2025. https://www.genderequalitycommission.vic.gov.au/intersectionality-work/chapter-5-gender-and-LGBTIQ-employees. Accessed May 2025.
2. IDAHOBIT. AWEI 2024 Report. 25 March 2025. https://www.idahobit.org.au/identity-and-stats/awei-2024-report:-lgbtqia+-employees-face-rising-discrimination-at-work. Accessed May 2025.

Tia Orfanidis, SenateSHJ, +61 411 293 583 / [email protected]