Belonging and inclusion
We celebrate our diversity, show respect and appreciate the unique talents and perspectives that each of us brings to work each day.
We know that diverse voices means bring different views and experiences together to help us find the best solutions in our work.
We recognise that while we can set diversity targets and measure progress in numbers, inclusion is deeper and harder to measure. An inclusive workplace asks the question: is our culture able to support every employee to contribute, optimise their potential, grow, and be valued for their perspective, skills and for who they are?
In our workplace we all take responsibility to learn about how our colleagues can be supported to perform at their best.
An inclusive culture is the responsibility of every employee individually and collectively. That is why evidence-based diversity and inclusion training is provided to all our employees.
Gender Equality Progress Report - Commission of Gender Equality in the Public Sector – Insights Portal
Barwon Water continues to promote diversity and inclusion; while also working to ensure we met all our obligations under the Gender Equity Act 2020, through the delivery of our Belonging @ Barwon Water Inclusion Action Plan 2022-25.
Opportunities for First Nations people
Our Aboriginal Employment and Retention Strategy is a key commitment under our Reconciliation Action Plan.
Central to the strategy is understanding and embedding Aboriginal cultural values in our workplace.
We aim to attract increasing numbers of First Nation employees into career pathways and empower Aboriginal staff to progress and succeed professionally. The strategy outlines the path we will follow on our journey to achieving employee outcomes, enhancing relationships and continuing our commitment to b a diverse, inclusive employer of choice for First Nations people.
Case study: Aboriginal Employment and Retention Strategy
In May 2022, Barwon Water was awarded the Australian Water Association Organisational Excellence Award for its Aboriginal Employment and Retention Strategy.
The strategy, a key commitment under our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, is structured around five key areas including: Recruitment, Induction, Inclusive Workplace Practices, Retention and Development.
At the heart of the strategy, developed and implemented in partnership with Wan-Yaari Aboriginal Consultancy Services, is understanding and embedding First Nations Cultural Values and the holistic wellbeing of First Nations Peoples. It provides the foundations for creating and delivering culturally appropriate, respectful and meaningful outcomes for First Nations employees.
We aim to attract increasing numbers of First Nations employees into career pathways that are diverse and inclusive, provide culturally appropriate support and empower First Nations staff to progress and succeed professionally.
This strategy holds us accountable for developing meaningful connections and employment opportunities with First Nations peoples in our region, to enable their knowledge, understanding and water values, to form an integral part of our water management and planning programs.
— Barwon Water Managing Director Tracey Slatter
The Organisational Excellence Award recognises significant and innovative water initiatives driving prosperity, sustainability and transformative change – and external programs improving engagement or outcomes for communities and partners.
Supporting employees of all abilities
We recruit and support people of all abilities. We recognise that people living with disability are widely represented in our community.
Talk to us about any accommodations we can make to ensure your recruitment process meets any special needs which you may have.
Spotlight on hearing-impaired trainee, Kaitlyn Kesson
Kaitlyn is a trainee at Barwon Water. She has severe/profound hearing loss. Without her hearing aid, she’s deaf.
Kaitlyn’s story shines the light on how important it is for us to look beyond the difference or the (dis)ability to a person’s capabilities and how organisations like ours can adapt.
We’re committed to fostering the thriving growth and optimal contributions for all our people.
Kaitlyn shared a presentation with us so that we were able to create an even more inclusive workplace environment. Simple things like meeting face-to-face, making eye contact, writing down notes, and being patient all go a long way to helping Kaitlyn feel values and included and work.
WORK180 endorsed
Our policies on pay, conditions, benefits and opportunities have earned us endorsement from WORK180 a global jobs network and independent advocate for working women.
Our people are our most valuable asset, and we’re proud to be recognised for promoting a healthy, happy, high-performing workforce.
Barwon Water is proud to be named as one of Australia's top 101 workplaces for women.
By partnering with WORK180 we have access to a broader female talent community, helping us to attract and recruit the best talent and increase diversity within our organisation.
Diversity Council Australia member
Barwon Water is a proud member of the Diversity Council Australia the independent not-for-profit peak body leading diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Our membership provides our workforce with access to unique research, exciting events, comprehensive resources and unrivalled expertise.
By partnering with Diversity Council Australia, we aim to ensure our policies and practices are among the best in the industry when it comes to accessibility, flexibility, diversity and inclusion.
Recalibrate Gender Equity Awards 2024
Barwon Water is proud to be the recipient of the 2024 Recalibrate Gender Equity Award in the medium business category. Overseen by Business in Heels, these awards celebrate outstanding initiatives and leaders driving transformative change in workplace gender equity across Australia.
This recognition reflects Barwon Water's ongoing commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, a journey we have been purposefully advancing since 2016.
Learn more about the awards: