Cultural & Linguistic Diversity

in Australia
At the 2006 Census Australia’s population
was 19,855,288. Of this population:
• 22.2% were either born overseas or had one
parent born overseas
• Over 200 languages spoken – most
common being English 78.5%, Italian 1.9%,
Greek 1.3%, Cantonese 1.2%, Arabic 1.2%,
Mandarin 1.1%, Vietnamese 1.0%,
Our language & cultural diversity is
strongly reflected in the Australian
workforce – At October 2002:

• 23% of Australian workers were born

overseas, with 15% coming from non-
english speaking countries
• 29% of the total number of small businesses
in Australia were operated by people who
were born overseas
 Diversity

• Diversity is not just about increasing visible differences in

the workforce, it is about the strategic advantages that
come from incorporating a wide variety of approaches and
perspectives
• SO……
"Diversity Works!"

Diversity Works!" is about

utilising the language
and cultural diversity of
Australia's workforce
and population for the
economic benefit of all
Australians.
Diversity at Work - Categories
• People with a
Disability
• Indigenous people
• Culturally &
Linguistically diverse
people
• Mature Aged Workers
• Women
 What is Diversity Management?
• Managing diversity is how a workplace
creates a workplace climate that is
inclusive, respectful, innovative and
supportive of each member of staff. The
climate should contribute to each member’s
full potential whilst leveraging diversity as
an organisational resource.
 INCLUSION
• Is the essence of a workplace where
everyone in the organisation has an
opportunity to fully participate in creating
business success and is valued for the
distinctive skills, experiences and
perspectives they bring
 So:

• Diversity – is all the differences we bring to

our workplace
• Inclusion – is the environment we create to
allow these differences to thrive