The following are examples of employers who embody leading practice on cultural diversity:
- IBM
- Attorney General's Department of NSW
- Sydney Catchment Authority
- University of Wollongong
- Lloyds TSB
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Attorney General's Department of NSW
Multicultural Network
The Multicultural Network is one part of the Attorney General Department's plan to create a strong, diverse workforce and an environment free from discrimination and harassment. Results from the Department's 1999 'Have Your Say' survey indicated that staff from non-English speaking backgrounds felt that they had little support within the agency and that opportunities for their career progression were limited. The Multicultural Network continues to run successfully. The network has benefited the agency and the community by:
- Collecting qualitative information;
- Developing policies and procedures that are non-discriminatory and contribute to greater equity;
- Identifying and removing barriers to career progression;
- Raising awareness that all staff are valued, leading to a more productive workplace;
- Attracting and retaining skilled staff; and
- Promoting a workplace culture of fair and equitable practices and behaviours.
Cross-Cultural Communication Training
Since 1997, the Attorney General's Department has offered a two-day cross-cultural communication course for all staff. Staff who provide services to customers from different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds are particularly encouraged to attend. The aim of the course is to:
- Support the NSW Government to be responsive;
- Assist staff to overcome communication barriers when dealing with customers with diverse backgrounds and experiences;
- Foster staff skills in working with interpreters; and
- Improve staff communication and respect for different cultures.
This course has:
- Improved communication between the agency and its customers;
- Increased the value of contributions made by staff from diverse cultures;
- Provided greater awareness of prejudice, discrimination and racism;
- Enhanced staff skills in working with interpreters; and
- Improved customer service.
