On 22 October 2024, Diversity Council Australia (DCA) and major sponsor IAG brought together business leaders, industry experts, and entertainers for the return of one of the most anticipated diversity and inclusion (D&I) events of the year – the Diversity Debate.
The event, which took place at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney, captivated attendees as the debate teams tackled this year’s topic: Is polarisation holding diversity and inclusion back?
A night of lively discussion, reflection, and rollicking entertainment
Under the guidance of master of ceremonies, renowned journalist Patricia Karvelas, the two teams engaged in a lively and insightful debate that was both thought-provoking and entertaining.
The affirmative team raised critical concerns about the increased division seen in today’s public discourse, noting that polarisation often creates barriers to empathy and inclusive action.
“The opposite of polarisation is what is best for diversity and inclusion and that is solidarity,” said Thomas Mayo, Assistant National Secretary, Maritime Union of Australia and award-winning author.
“If you get too far apart if you cannot find empathy inclusion cannot prevail. What worries me the most is that we won’t do what we need to do as a society and that is putting pressure on decision-makers and having empathy for each other.”
On the other hand, the negative team argued that polarising views, while uncomfortable, serves as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and change, helping to shine a light on issues previously ignored.
“Polarisation amplifies diverse perspectives. It fosters growth and promotes dialogue,” said Niki Kesoglou, Executive Manager Culture, Inclusion & Community, IAG.
“As we all know, nothing changes without a little heat. Diverse perspectives are the key to innovation. Disagreement disrupts the status quo and drives better solutions.”
And the winner is…
At the end of the night, the audience vote favoured the affirmative team, who received 62% of the audience votes and were declared the winners of the 2024 Diversity Debate.
“Regardless of which side prevailed, diversity and inclusion is the true winner in this debate,” said Patricia Karvelas.
“Every argument, whether for or against, serves to deepen our understanding of the challenges and opportunities before us. By taking part in this discussion, we all reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing D&I in meaningful ways.”
Presented by major sponsor IAG, supporting sponsor Suncorp and associate sponsor Telstra, attendees also enjoyed networking over canapés, followed by a two-course dinner while dissecting one of the most important issues facing workplaces today.
“The Diversity Debate is not just about intellectual sparring – it is a celebration of progress, community, and the shared goal of fostering inclusive environments across Australia,” said DCA CEO Lisa Annese.
“This year’s Diversity Debate reinforced just how complex and multifaceted the issue of polarisation is for diversity and inclusion. The conversation was both enlightening and challenging, showing us that while polarisation can pose obstacles, it can also ignite the kind of passion and urgency we need to advance inclusion in our workplaces.”
This year’s teams
Each debate team was made up of a mix of industry leaders, experts and comedians, including:
For the Affirmative – Yes, polarisation is holding D&I back:
- Dee Madigan – Executive Creative Director, Campaign Edge
- Michael Hing – Comedian, broadcaster, actor, improviser, and podcaster
- Thomas Mayo – Assistant National Secretary, Maritime Union of Australia and award-winning author.
For the Negative – No, polarisation is not holding D&I back
- Graeme Innes AM – Former Commissioner, Australian Human Rights Commission
- Niki Kesoglou – Executive Manager Culture, Inclusion & Community, IAG
- Lou Wall – Multi-award-winning comedian, composer, and content creator.
For more information on the debate or to learn more about DCA’s upcoming events and initiatives, visit DCA’s Diversity Debate landing page.
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Images from Diversity Council Australia and IAG’s 2024 Diversity Debate are available via Dropbox.
Media contact
Ali Coulton | media@dca.org.au