Embracing diversity and inclusion in our community
A gap analysis with QIP against the Rainbow Tick standard guided our expansion of diversity efforts and set the stage for broader initiatives.
Our focus was on enhancing inclusive practices, advocacy, and community engagement. In November, we joined ACON’s Pride in Diversity and Pride in Health and Wellbeing programs, which provided valuable LGBTQ inclusion training and expert guidance as we worked towards the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI). With 79% of our team completing the new Foundations training, we were well-positioned to submit our AWEI foundations assessment, marking a key milestone in our journey.
Throughout the year, we conducted targeted inclusion workshops across UCSA, ensuring that our teams were equipped with the knowledge and skills to foster a more inclusive culture. Our commitment to diversity was also highlighted at the 6th National Better Together Conference in Geelong, where we proudly presented our progress and shared our experiences with a national audience.
This journey has enriched our understanding and created a more welcoming and affirming environment within our organisation.
Our achievements reflect our ongoing commitment to making diversity and inclusion core values of our work, ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported.
We are excited to continue this important work, building on our foundation to further advance our diversity and inclusion efforts in the year ahead.
The day was filled with moments of connection, empowerment, and self-care, creating a safe space for women to share their experiences and support one another.
One of the highlights of the day was hearing from Sheree Schonian, founder of I Am Sheree, who shared her powerful and deeply personal story of overcoming domestic violence. Sheree spoke candidly about her experiences, starting from her childhood and continuing through a 16-year relationship marked by abuse.
Her journey of healing and empowerment resonated deeply with everyone in attendance, underscoring the importance of breaking the cycle of violence and fostering healthy relationships.
The event also offered an opportunity for attendees to be pampered and celebrated, with activities designed to uplift and honour the strength of women in our community.
By creating a space for sharing, listening, and healing, we aimed to contribute to the broader goals of Reconciliation Week — promoting understanding, respect, and meaningful connections between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community.
We are grateful to all who participated and shared their stories, helping to build a stronger, more connected community.
This event not only highlighted the significance of reconciliation but also reinforced our commitment to supporting women in their journeys towards healthier and more empowered lives.
In Port Pirie, our youth team proudly hosted the inaugural NAIDOC mini-ball, with over 60 young people enjoying an evening of great music, colourful lights, and a lively atmosphere. The event featured a photo booth, free hair styling, makeup, and donated clothes, creating a memorable night for all attendees.
Whyalla’s NAIDOC celebrations were equally spirited, bringing the community together through events that honoured Indigenous culture and provided unforgettable experiences.
In Port Augusta, our Communities for Children, HIPPY, Family Relationships, and Advancing Families teams collaborated to host a joyful mini-ball filled with dancing, games, and community spirit, further celebrating NAIDOC Week with local families.
We were also proud to sponsor the Malka 2024 Art Awards, which showcased incredible local talent. Congratulations to Josephine Lennon, this year’s winning artist, whose work beautifully captured the spirit of the event.
These celebrations were made possible through partnerships with outstanding organisations, community members, and local councils. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who collaborated with us, making these events a resounding success and reinforcing our commitment to celebrating and honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
This year, our Healthy Workers, Healthy Futures Committee celebrated this connection by releasing a series of special staff recipes, each accompanied by personal stories that share why these dishes hold a special place in their hearts. These recipes not only highlight our cultural diversity but also foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich tapestry of traditions that unite us all.
The program involved 40 participants, including managers, team leaders, service staff, and volunteers, prioritising First Nations representation. Conducted in Port Augusta, the workshops included two full-day sessions held five weeks apart.
Understanding Connectedness explored essential concepts such as Cultural Awareness, Safety, Competence, and Aboriginal Identity, highlighting their crucial role in effective service delivery.
Connectedness Model Approaches introduced staff to the Connectedness Model, providing insights into First Nations history, worldviews, and systemic racism, guiding participants to improve service delivery and strengthen community engagement.
Feedback from the workshops was overwhelmingly positive, and the program will be assessed for its potential to become an ongoing initiative, reinforcing UCSA’s commitment to culturally safe practices.