Equity and Diversity in Defence is about people and equality of opportunity.

The Defence equitable and diverse environment is achieved through the applications of the following principles:

• treating each other with respect and dignity;
• recognising that all people are different and valuing differences;
• using the different contributions that people can make to the team;
• making judgements genuinely based on fairness and merit;
• eliminating artificial, unfair and inappropriate barriers to workplace participation;
• providing appropriate means to monitor and address discrimination and harassment;
• providing opportunities for flexibility when meeting organisational requirements; and
• consulting people on policies and decisions that affect them.

Defence has implemented numerous policies, procedures and programs to assist in entrenching the above principles of equity and diversity into the Department.  One initiative is the implementation of the Defence Equity Advice Line. The advice line provides a confidential information and referral service for all Defence employees. Callers can ask about their rights and options before taking action relating to any form of harassment or discrimination.

It is the responsibility of all Defence personnel to provide a work environment free from unacceptable behaviour and to report equity and diversity issues so that corrective action can be taken. 

"Diversity includes everyone and excludes no-one".

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