Cultural & Linguistic Diversity at Department of Defence

Defence strives for a workplace that respects, values and utilises the contributions of people with different cultural backgrounds and perspectives.

Australian Public Service, Department of Defence staff (l-r) Contestability Division Mr Tom Murphy, Defence Industry Policy Division Ms Madeleine Banister, International Policy Division Mr Mark Bellchambers and Strategic Policy Division Ms Helen Thai. Photo: Megan Popelier.

People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds:

increases our capability
deepens our cultural understanding.
helps to build effective relationships with our counterparts and allies.

Defence is committed to creating an inclusive working environment for its staff. It strives for a workplace that respects, values and utilises the contributions of people with different cultural backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

At least one third of the Defence APS workforce and one quarter of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) are culturally or linguistically diverse. Each year the Department contributes to the Multicultural Affairs Access and Equity Annual Report. This highlights Defence's work to progress inclusion for staff from different backgrounds. It also shares best practice initiatives from a whole of government perspective.

Defence regularly recognises and supports events of significance such as Harmony Day.

The Defence Religious Advisory Committee (RAC) provides ongoing faith-related advice to Defence. This advice ensures Defence meets the pastoral needs of personnel of all beliefs. Defence's own Guide to Religion and Belief ensures that cultural and belief-related requirements are met in operational procedures and uniform.

Defence supports employees to practice their faith subject to the considerations of operational effectiveness, health and safety, and capability priorities.

I acknowledge that Murdoch University is situated on the lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people.

I pay respect to the enduring and dynamic culture and the leadership of Noongar elders both past and present.

The boodjar (country) on which Murdoch University is located has for thousands of years been a place of learning. We at Murdoch University are proud to continue this long tradition.