Victorian Public Sector Commission
What we did
Diversity Partners developed and delivered a virtual training package for directors on Victorian sector public boards that will increase their skills and knowledge to provide a board culture and decision-making environment that values and welcomes diversity. We were selected by the Victorian Public Sector Commission to develop the program.
What we covered
- What an inclusive board culture means
- What gets in the way: exclusionary behaviours and unconscious biases
- ’Upstander’ strategies to encourage inclusive habits
- Fair and inclusive board recruitment practices
Outcomes / Impact
The program had a significant impact in building the competence and confidence of board members. Before participating in the workshop, 52 per cent of participants said their level of competence and confidence in the topic covered was ‘high’ or ‘very high’. This increased to 94 per cent after participation in the workshop.
Other results:
- 98 per cent of participants said the program was relevant to Victorian public sector members
- 92 per cent of attendees reported that they would recommend this program to other Victorian public sector board members.
- 96 per cent of participants said the workshop experience was engaging.
- 87 per cent have deepened their understanding of how to encourage and support people from different backgrounds to contribute to meetings.
Program Feedback
‘Definitely one of the best board sessions I have done in 15 years of board work.’
‘This session well and truly exceeded my expectations. It was engaging and informative. The session equally challenged my personal contribution to board discussion and culture but also my organisation’s culture. One of the best educational opportunities I have attended for a long time.’
‘I highly recommend this course on building a diverse board. The content is abundantly relevant, timely and delivered in an engaging, and thoughtful manner by the two expert facilitators. My colleague and I were so impressed we have suggested all our University Council members participate in future courses.’
Rhonda Whitfield, Deputy Chancellor, Federation University Australia
It’s been a pleasure partnering with Diversity Partners over the past year. Thank you for your flexibility and responsiveness. Your experience and your approach to the sessions, which acknowledged and welcomed the experience and wisdom ‘in the room’, was perfect for the audience. Thanks again for your commitment and care in delivering this program.
Lisa Merrifield, Acting Director, Leadership, Capability and Pathways, Victorian Public Sector Commission
