Lisa Annese with DCA Board Members: (L-R: Annie Pettitt, Peter Chun, Lisa Annese, Ian Goshko, Sunita Gloster AM, Elizabeth Hristoforidis, Julie Canepa, Chris Lamb and Craig Mutton
On behalf of the Board of Diversity Council Australia (DCA), we extend our deepest gratitude to Lisa Annese as she concludes her tenure as CEO.
Lisa has been an extraordinary leader and a true champion for diversity and inclusion (D&I) in Australian workplaces. Her unwavering commitment to DCA’s mission has left an indelible mark on the organisation, and we celebrate her legacy with immense pride and gratitude.
Since stepping into the role of CEO in 2014, Lisa has strengthened DCA into a leading voice for D&I in Australia. Her leadership has been characterised by courage, innovation, and a relentless drive to dismantle systemic barriers and create inclusive spaces for all. Under her stewardship, DCA’s membership has grown more than sixfold, reflecting her ability to inspire organisations across sectors to join the movement for equity and inclusion.
Lisa’s passion for addressing entrenched inequalities has enabled DCA to deliver groundbreaking research and initiatives that have redefined the landscape of D&I. Pivotal projects have included Australia’s first national index on workplace diversity and inclusion, research on the economics of the gender pay gap, and initiatives like Counting Culture, Building Inclusive Leadership and Words at Work. She has also advanced research supporting individuals being Out at Work, and addressing workplace responses to sexual harassment and domestic and family violence.
Her leadership has elevated important conversations about workplace inclusion, bringing critical issues—such as racism and class inequity—to the forefront of national attention. Through her advocacy, Lisa has positioned DCA as an influential force in shaping Australian workplace culture and policy.
We thank Lisa for her contributions that extend beyond DCA on the global stage, presenting DCA research at forums like the Commission for the Status of Women in New York, UNESCO Summits in Baku and Kerala, and universities across Greece and the United States. She spearheaded the impactful #IStandForRespect campaign, where over 220 Australian CEOs pledged to take a stand against gendered harassment and violence.
Through Lisa’s leadership DCA has been a vocal advocate for critical policy actions, including changes to the Sex Discrimination Act, accessible and affordable childcare, closing the gender pay gap, and achieving Australian marriage equality. She has also worked to maintain protections in the Race Discrimination Act, strengthen the Workplace Gender Equality Act, and increase multi-faith inclusion.
We delight in resharing some of her key highlights outlined in her farewell message and reflections.
To Lisa: While we are saddened to see you leave DCA, your contributions to DCA and the broader Australian community will be celebrated for years to come. You have led with authenticity, vision, and heart, leaving behind an organisation that is stronger, more influential, and equipped to drive change. Thank you for your extraordinary leadership and dedication.
As Lisa departs, the DCA Board is actively progressing the CEO search and looks forward to sharing an update early in the new year. We are confident that the next leader will build on Lisa’s incredible legacy and continue to drive the important work of DCA forward.
Please join us in celebrating Lisa’s achievements and wishing her every success in her future endeavours.
With gratitude and best wishes,
The DCA Board