Here at ACON, diversity means more to us than just equal opportunity or tolerating others.

It means:

• Respecting and valuing differences – emotional, intellectual, physical and experiential
• Recognising and appreciating the variety of characteristics that make individuals unique in an atmosphere that promotes and celebrates individual and collective achievement
• Providing an inclusive workplace where the insights of different groups are sought and welcomed – where people are not alienated or sidelined because they don’t fit into a set expectation

The following statement is an affirmation of ACON’s commitment to diversity in our workplace and in our communities of service:

Respecting individuals and valuing diversity

ACON sees the diversity of individuals and of our communities as a strength.

We believe we have a responsibility to demonstrate leadership on diversity issues within our communities and more broadly.

We respect and value the diverse life experiences of our clients, communities, staff and volunteers.

By having diverse staff and volunteers we are better able to achieve our mission and able to provide better services to diverse communities.

Only by acknowledging and developing the skills and commitment of all our people will ACON be in the best position to meet our future challenges.

Creating and maintaining a diverse culture is about recognising individual difference, contribution and need — not managing everyone the same.

At ACON, it is everybody’s responsibility to ensure that respecting individuals and valuing diversity is part of every program.