Resources
Building an LGBTQ+ Inclusive Workplace
A Blueprint for Australia’s Construction Industry
Despite its prominence, the construction industry faces a skills shortage and remains Australia’s most male dominated sector with women’s participation tracking backwards in the last decade. While research has focused on gender equity in the Australian construction industry, there is little understanding of the experiences of LGBTQ+ workers in the sector.
This report from the Australian Human Rights Institute at UNSW, Sydney summarises key findings from a recent study by Dr Natalie Galea and Dr Melissa Jardine on the experiences of LGBTQ+ workers in the Australian construction sector and the effectiveness of existing diversity and inclusion strategies - a focus of inquiry necessary to improve workplace inclusivity and diversity. It includes links to industry prepared materials to support organisations seeking to become more LGBTQ+ inclusive
The research was conducted during 2020 and comprised an international literature review and 60-90 minute interviews with 23 LGBTQ+ construction employees.
Participants ranged from tradespeople to senior executives of multinational companies from across Australia and represented a mix of ages, gender identities and sexual orientations.
Inc-loo-sion
New Guidelines for Inclusive Bathrooms
Our research shows that 1 in 4 people sometimes need extra space, time, or privacy when using the toilet. Additionally, for many people an all gender bathroom option can have major physical and mental health benefits.
Through our Inc-loo-sion Project we're creating guidelines to promote greater choice and design of bathrooms that are inclusive of all. In 2020 we surveyed people from the LGBTQ+ community and InterBuild’s networks to better understand the needs of the community, their experiences within the built environment, and the barriers to greater inclusion.
We launched our findings on June 2nd at our first major event for 2021. 70 people attended online and in person to learn how we as employers, developers, and building owners can create safer and more inclusive spaces for everyone. A big thank you to the GPT Group for sharing their insights and to Minter Ellison for hosting this event.