Arup recognised as Silver Employer at Australian LGBTQ+ Awards

Since 2011, the Australian LGBTQ+ Awards have celebrated organisations making foundational and progressive efforts toward workplace inclusivity for LGBTQ+ people. The Awards are based on submissions to the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), which benchmarks LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and practices annually.

Liam O’Donohue, Arup’s Managing Principal for Australia and New Zealand, expressed his pride in the firm’s achievement:

“Achieving the Silver Employer status at this year's Australian LGBTQ+ Awards is a testament to our ongoing commitment to inclusivity. AWEI, well known for its comprehensive and action-focused benchmarks, greatly influences the initiatives outlined in our Pride and Allyship Action Plan. This plan, one of four within our EDI Strategy, illustrates our ongoing efforts to cultivate a welcoming and diverse workplace for all current and potential employees.”

“We are both proud to receive the silver award and dedicated to continuing this work to achieve even greater results in the future. I want recognise the contributions of all our people who have worked so hard to contribute to the firm's inclusivity, and especially Esther Wheeler, our Connect Network Leader; Brad Harvey-Fiander, Pride and Allyship Working Group Leader; and Rob Saidman, Executive Champion for the Pride and Allyship Plan for the assessment period,” Liam added. 

Brad Harvey-Fiander, Arup’s Pride and Allyship Working Group Leader for Australia and New Zealand, expressed his delight at the award and the firm’s ongoing commitment to inclusion:

“This recognition reflects the impact of intentional, sustained effort. Over the past three years, we have seen genuine actions improve the inclusiveness of the firm, such as our Boards’ reverse mentoring program, ensuring LGBTIQ+ families are included in parental and domestic and family violence policies, and partnering with the Talent Acquisition team to enhance the candidates’ early experiences with Arup." 

"A vital part of our strategy to build a more inclusive Arup is having dedicated working groups driving initiatives that support LGBTIQ+ employees, while our LGBTIQ+ employee resource group Connect Out informs and influences these policies and practices based on their experiences. Our progress from bronze to silver is thanks to the collective work of many across Arup who are committed to building an environment where LGBTIQ+ people feel seen, supported, and valued.” 

For more information about the Australian LGBTQ+ Awards and the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), please visit the AWEI website.