Finance has the following groups and diversity related networks, which collectively aim to increase awareness, share Finance’s aspirations and values and make a positive contribution to the Department’s culture.
The Department encourages all staff to join a network whether you identify, or as an ally.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network
Finance’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network (ATSISN) highlights and promotes events, which draw attention to significant dates of importance, including National Reconciliation and NAIDOC weeks. The network also supports its members to increase cultural awareness across the Department. ATSISN also works across the diversity networks to foster collaboration and inclusion, and strengthen relationships.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Plus Network
The LGBTI+ Network aspires to champion change for LGBTI members of the Department and the broader Canberra community. The LGBTI+ Network aims to positively contribute to creating a more inclusive workplace, where LGBTI+ staff feel comfortable to bring their whole self to work. The LGBTI+ network is a supportive, inclusive and safe network which welcomes all employees with no stereotypes, labels or judgement. The network meets on a regular basis and participates in national days that focus on the LGBTI+ community.
Gender Equity Network
The Gender Equity Network’s purpose is to share responsibility to educate and challenge unconscious gender bias in achieving equality The network has been inspired by the words and work of the previous Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Elizabeth Broderick, who said: “Gender equality is not a battle of the sexes; it is a battle for equality – a battle that men and women must wage side by side”. The network acknowledges that equality cannot be achieved without commitment from men and welcomes members of all genders.
Ability Network
The Ability Network is committed to recognising, supporting and improving opportunities for people with disability and their carers. The network will create and sustain an inclusive workplace, increase disability confidence and awareness and leverage the skills and talents of employees with disability, carers and people with mental health conditions. All staff are welcome to join the network to help provide a workplace that builds stronger support, understanding, accessibility and opportunities through events and by actioning key initiatives of the diversity strategy.
Emerging Leaders Network
The Emerging Leaders Network (ELN) unlocks the potential of emerging leaders in the Department by creating opportunities, facilitating career planning, mentoring and building relationships. The network is open to all Finance employees and seeks to promote and encourage contributions and the development of all emerging leaders.
Social Club
The Finance Social Club supports networks and groups across the Department to offer cultural, sporting, and other fun social events to benefit the Finance community and a wide-range of charities.
Social Club activities include Department-wide sporting competitions, balls, trivia nights, Melbourne Cup and the Finance Christmas party.
Diversity Team – DIVERSITY@ FINANCE
The Finance Diversity Team supports diversity in the workplace and values the contribution of people from diverse background. The Department has various networks and documents available to staff to share ideas, promote diversity within the workplace, and offer assistance to those who identify with diversity groups.
Staff Consultative Group (SCG)
The SCG operates to discuss and consult on matters relating to the Finance EA, to provide feedback to employees regarding employment matters and provide advice to management on workplace issues (excluding individual employee matters). SCG members are elected by Finance employees.
Finance's Professional Community of Accountants
The Department of Finance is accredited as a CPA (Certified Practicing Accountant) Australia Recognised Employer to the Knowledge Level. This accreditation provides Finance CPA Members and Associate Members with a simple alternative method to demonstrate adherence to the required continuing professional development (CPD) or practical experience requirement (PER) as appropriate.
Membership of Finance’s Professional Community of Accountants (PCoA) is free and there are many benefits to joining. The Chapter will, for example:
- provide a focal point for accounting and financial expertise;
- offer free continuing professional development (CPD);
- serve as a forum for the exchange of information in Finance, which is in line with our overall emphasis on knowledge management;
- promote the link between Finance and the professional accounting bodies; and
- provide regular updates on the latest in the accounting environment, within Australia and internationally.
Executive Assistant’s Network (EA Network)
The EA Network was established to allow executive assistants to discuss issues in a professional and social environment. The EA Network meets on a regular basis to share information and ideas and to keep up-to-date with new policies, procedures, and technology.
