Australia’s only independent inclusion index reveals 2025-2026 Inclusive Employers. From Our Watch to Grant Thornton, organisations share what inclusion means beyond the benchmarks.
What’s happening: Diversity Council Australia has recognised more than 80 organisations as 2025-2026 Inclusive Employers during Inclusion at Work Week.
Why this matters: Research continues to show inclusion isn’t just ethical, it’s essential to workplace performance and wellbeing. The index gives leaders evidence and insights to drive progress, make data-driven decisions about attracting and retaining talent, and understand where improvement is needed.
More than 80 Australian organisations have been recognised as Inclusive Employers for 2025-2026, marking their commitment to building workplaces where everyone can feel valued, respected, and able to contribute.
Diversity Council Australia made the announcement to coincide with Inclusion at Work Week, which runs from 17 to 21 November 2025. The annual event celebrates the progress Australian organisations are making to foster inclusive workplaces.
The Inclusive Employer Index, run in partnership with Cultural Infusion, is Australia’s only inclusion index led by an independent peak body. It enables organisations to measure, benchmark and report on workplace inclusion across nine diversity dimensions.
Employers who exceed national benchmarks earn the title of DCA Inclusive Employer, which is recognised nationally as a benchmark for inclusive workplace practice.
Catherine Hunter, CEO of Diversity Council Australia, says research continues to show that inclusion isn’t only the just thing to do. It’s essential to workplace performance and wellbeing.
“It’s inspiring to see so many organisations taking meaningful action to create workplaces where everyone can thrive. Being an inclusive employer isn’t about meeting targets or ticking boxes, it’s about listening to your people, understanding their experiences, and building systems and cultures that enable everyone to contribute their best,” Hunter said.
“The Inclusive Employer Index gives leaders the evidence and insights they need to drive real progress and make smarter, data-driven decisions about how to attract and retain talent, strengthen culture and boost performance.”
Hunter says these employers are showing that inclusion is not a one-off initiative, but an ongoing commitment that strengthens organisations and benefits everyone.
Participation in the index provides organisations with valuable insights into their employees’ experiences of inclusion and exclusion, along with benchmarking tools, data dashboards, and practical support resources.
Celebrating Inclusion at Work Week 2025
The 2025-2026 Inclusive Employers span multiple sectors. They include 7-Eleven, Aurecon, Australian Gas Infrastructure Group, BDO Australia, Capgemini Australia, Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers, Domain Holdings Australia, Future Group, Grant Thornton Australia, Great Southern Bank, IP Australia, Lifeline WA, National Heart Foundation of Australia, Our Watch, Property Council of Australia, Services Australia, Slater and Gordon, Teachers Health Group, and Tennis NSW, among others.
As Inclusion at Work Week begins, DCA is inviting all workplaces across Australia to join a national conversation about inclusion. This year also marks a significant milestone as DCA celebrates its 40th anniversary, providing an opportunity to reflect on progress and look ahead at the work still needed to ensure everyone can thrive at work.
Workplaces can share reflections online using the hashtag #InclusionAtWorkWeek and tagging DCA to showcase achievements, highlight inclusion champions, and inspire others to act.
Throughout the week, DCA will run special education programs and release new resources for employers, including The Case for Inclusion@Work 2025-2026, a Linguistic Bias at Work Guide for members, and the 2026 D&I Calendar.
Mike Zorbas, Chief Executive of Property Council of Australia, says the council is committed to creating an industry with a deep, inclusive talent pool that reflects the communities it serves.
“At the Property Council, we’re working to open doors and make sure talented people find their place, and can be themselves, wherever they come from,” Zorbas said.
“It is an honour to receive this recognition, and equally, we know there is much to be done to support our terrific members in our vital industry.”
Steven James, Head of Sustainability & DEIB at Future Group, says the organisation’s business thrives on diverse perspectives and experiences, but only when people feel empowered and safe to bring their whole selves to work.
“Our goal is for everyone who joins Future Group, regardless of background, to feel valued and supported. That’s what inclusion means to us,” James said.
Said Jahani, CEO of Grant Thornton, describes the recognition as a proud moment for the firm.
“This honour reflects the deep commitment across our firm to creating a workplace where every voice is valued and every individual feels they belong,” Jahani said.
“It’s a testament to the culture we’ve built together, one that celebrates diversity and aims to support inclusion every day.”
Brad Joyce, CEO of Teachers Health, says participating in the index gives the organisation clear benchmarks to measure progress and identify areas for improvement.
“It reflects our continuing commitment to embedding inclusion into how we operate, not just in principle, but in practice,” Joyce said.
“Inclusion remains a strategic priority for us, and this recognition reinforces that we’re on the right path, while reminding us there’s always more to do.”
See the full list of 2025-2026 Inclusive Employers.
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