Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders at Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR)

At DEWR, you will have access to a range of Diversity and Inclusion Networks designed to bring people together with shared experiences and interests.

We acknowledge the valuable and unique contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples bring to our organisation and are committed to improving opportunities for all Indigenous Australians. We develop and deliver education and training policies and programs by working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, respecting cultures and building our cultural capability.

Indigenous Affirmative Measure

We seek to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Australian community and recognise the important knowledge and skills Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples bring to the work we do. Attracting, developing and retaining Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees is a priority for the department.

Indigenous Graduate Pathway

DEWR welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in all degree disciplines to our graduate program.

This year we’re participating in the Indigenous Graduate Pathway. When you apply for this pathway, you will be considered by over 40 different agencies in the Australian Government. Learn more about this pathway via our website.

Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

We place reconciliation at the core of our work to improve the policies and programs we deliver to all Australians.

DEWR is developing its inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan. This is an opportunity to strengthen our understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures, history and diversity.

Further information about Reconciliation Action Plans can be found on the Reconciliation Australia website.

Culture and Support

All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees are welcome to join First Nations Network. The Network provides an important mechanism for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to support each other, share information and experiences.

The department hosts NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week events each year to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history, and achievements. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees may also access Ceremonial and NAIDOC Leave.

First Nations and Reconciliation Champions

DEWR’s Executive Diversity and Inclusion Champions play a key role in fostering an inclusive, respectful and positive workplace culture. They support Diversity and Inclusion Networks by advocating for cultural safety, competency, and change.

Our First Nations Champion supports the department’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network by promoting initiatives which help to build a culturally supportive workplace that values the contributions and perspectives of the department’s Indigenous employees.

Our Reconciliation Champion oversees the department’s work to develop and implement our RAP and chairs our RAP Working Group.

The Reconciliation Champion and First Nations Champion are complimentary roles, filled by members of the SES who work together to support First Nations initiatives throughout the department. They are dedicated to ensuring DEWR moves forward holistically in fostering a culturally safe and responsive workplace.