Your fortnightly newsletter from DCA. Together towards inclusion. |
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Raising the ceiling means restoring the dignity of challenge |
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There is a noticeable pattern emerging in corporate and government environments: Indigenous graduates and professionals are often encouraged, and sometimes gently steered, into Indigenous-facing roles. These roles are not where margin is managed, where capital is allocated, where commercial trade-offs are made, or where financial performance is ultimately judged. They sit adjacent to the business rather than inside it.
Brad Welsh (he/him), is the founder and CEO of Mawal, an organisation working to raise the ceiling for the next generation of Indigenous corporate leaders. In this blog, Brad shares practical steps that organisations can take to support the take-up of commercial leadership roles by First Nations people. |
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Have your say: last chance to complete DCA’s Member Survey
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There’s still time to share your insights in DCA’s 2026 Member Survey, closing COB today, 31 March. Your feedback helps shape the future of our membership offerings—ensuring our events, resources and programs continue to meet your needs. |
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A conversation with the Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman |
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Last week, Catherine Hunter (she/her), CEO at DCA, and Giridharan Sivaraman (he/him), Australian Human Rights Commission Race Discrimination Commissioner, participated in a 'fireside chat' on how workplaces can progress anti-racism.
Watch the event recording (DCA Members only) to hear about the current state of play of racism in Australia, how the government and businesses are responding, and what more workplaces can do. |
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#NRW2026: 'All in' for Reconciliation |
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National Reconciliation Week (NRW2026) takes place from 27 May–3 June and is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The theme for this year is ‘All in’, a reminder that reconciliation will not happen on its own, nor is it solely the responsibility of First Nations peoples, who have carried this work for far too long. Real change requires all of us to step forward, away from the sidelines, and to commit to reconciliation every single day. Take part and access events and resources, available on Reconciliation Australia’s website. |
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Early-bird discount ends soon: Inclusive Employer Index 2026-2027 |
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We are now accepting expressions of interest to take part in the 2026-2027 Inclusive Employer Index. More than a diversity survey, the Index is a diagnostic tool that helps organisations understand employee experiences of inclusion and exclusion, track diversity demographics, and identify where targeted action can have the greatest impact. Take advantage of our 10% early-bird discount by registering to take part by 5 April 2026.
By taking part, you also have the opportunity to be recognised as one of DCA’s Inclusive Employers for 2026-2027. |
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Demonstrate your commitment to D&I by sponsoring DCA’s Gender Equality Insights events
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DCA invites Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from members to sponsor our popular Gender Equality Insights event series. The series offers members the chance to share insights, challenges and strategies on gender equality, engage with WGEA and other regulators on reporting and policy developments, and access leading research and thought leaders from business and academia.
Sponsorship provides strong brand visibility and positioning as a leader in workplace gender equality, along with opportunities to showcase organisational expertise and collaborate on emerging issues. Eligible sponsors will align with DCA’s vision and purpose, demonstrate a strong track record on gender equality, including holding a current WGEA Employer of Choice Citation, and be willing to host at least one hybrid event annually with suitable venue with AV/livestream capabilities and catering options.
EOIs close Friday 17 April – contact events@dca.org.au for a prospectus. |
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Date: Wednesday 22 April 2026
Time: 9:15 AM to 12:30 PM AEST |
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Seeking Melbourne-based organisations for fully funded recruitment & retention program |
Social Ventures Australia’s Employer Innovation Lab is an evidence-based, fully funded program helping employers improve recruitment and retention by reducing barriers faced by young people. The upcoming Western Melbourne Lab (May 2026) offers hands on learning, a small cohort of up to 10 employers, and 12 months of expert guidance to design and implement real workforce solutions. Since 2022, the program has supported 45+ employers and helped 450+ young people into quality jobs. Limited spaces available—register now.
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Workplace inclusion conference in Auckland, Aotearoa
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Registrations are now open for Whiria Ngā Kaha Workplace Inclusion Aotearoa 2026, New Zealand’s premier workplace inclusion conference, taking place 5–6 May in Auckland. The 2026 theme, “Futureready and Fearless,” brings together diversity and inclusion leaders and practitioners for two days of inspiring sessions and connection. We are proud to share that DCA CEO Catherine Hunter will be speaking at the event, offering insights into the future of workplace inclusion. Explore the fantastic line-up of speakers or register now to attend.
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Executive Mastermind: Expressions of Interest Now Open
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Expressions of interest are now open for the Disability Leadership Institute’s Executive Mastermind, a specialised program for executive level disability leaders seeking deeper strategic development. The Mastermind offers a small peer cohort, three full day intensive workshops, and access to an ongoing community of practice, providing a unique space to extend leadership capability and navigate the demands of senior roles. Executive leaders with disability are encouraged to submit an expression of interest.
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Diversity Council Australia is proudly supported by |
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Diversity Council Australia Limited
Hub Customs House Level 4, 31 Alfred St
Sydney NSW 2000 |
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