Transgrid takes pride in powering rainbow diversity and inclusion

Transgrid is at the forefront of cultural change in the energy sector with an innovative approach to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace for members of the LGBTQI+ community and their families.

Executive General Manager People, Culture and Safety Jane Sherlock said: “We are working hard to ensure that our LGBTQI+ employees can be their authentic selves at work and create a safe, equitable and respectful environment where all staff can contribute and help deliver Australia’s clean energy future.

“Transgrid is committed to being an industry leader in LGBTQI+ inclusion and we are proactively introducing a range of programs and initiatives to ensure we are recognised as an employer of choice, and our company reflects the diverse communities where we live and work,” Ms Sherlock said.

The transmission infrastructure leader’s efforts have been spearheaded by its highly successful Rise Ally Network which is driving strategies for creating an inclusive, friendly, and supportive work environment where all employees can be themselves.

After 18 months in operation, the Network has enlisted more than 80 Allies across the business to lead the campaign to promote workplace inclusion through education, awareness, and support.

The Network also advises on the review and development of company policies and procedures to promote LGBTQI+ inclusivity in everything from ethical standards to leave arrangements and dress codes.

It also stages events throughout the year to recognise significant days in the LGBTQI+ calendar such as Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Wear It Purple and IDAHOBIT Day as well as networking opportunities and functions for Allies and other staff to encourage inclusivity.

Rise Ally Network chair Neil Howes said: “Through our Network we provide education and training for Allies, so they understand the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ staff members and learn how to be effective at promoting and supporting inclusivity and calling out any inappropriate behaviour in the workplace.

“Being out in an inclusive work environment is linked to significantly higher job satisfaction and engagement, increased emotional wellbeing, higher performance, and lower job stress and that’s what we want for our people.

“The Network also supports employees who have children, siblings, friends, and neighbours who identify as part of the LGBTQI+ community.

“We are very proud of the Network’s success to date in shifting culture and we will continue to work hard to ensure Transgrid is a safe and respectful workplace for everybody,” Mr Howes said.

Transgrid boasts dedicated diversity and inclusion staff and a Diversity Council, sponsored by CEO Brett Redman, to lead its efforts across a range of initiatives including LGBTQI+, gender equality and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

The company is also undertaking the accreditation process for the Australian Workplace Equality Index which stands as the definitive national benchmark on LGBTQI+ workplace inclusion. 

Marcel Yazbeck, who suffered bullying and harassment at previous workplaces, joined Transgrid as a Compliance Manager last year and congratulated the company on its efforts to drive diversity and inclusion for LGBTQI+ staff members.

“Transgrid has a genuine willingness to become an employer of choice – it’s not just face value or something they put on their advertisements for staff recruitment,” Mr Yazbeck said.

“There is a real appetite for diversity and inclusion in the workplace and a genuine attempt to let me be me and let me do my job and help the company achieve amazing things in the energy sector.

“Transgrid is extremely supportive of every one of its employees – it doesn’t matter what letter you identify as or what colour you identify as – you are part of the Transgrid family.”

Transgrid’s Rise Ally Network staged two events which coincided with the opening night of Sydney WorldPride 2023 on February 17, with staff from metropolitan and regional locations in attendance.  

A roundtable was held for Allies and employees to hear from speakers on LGBTQI+ inclusion and discuss the Network’s annual strategy and plan.

LGBTQI+ staff and Allies also came together at a Cocktail Cabaret Night to celebrate the achievements of the Rise Ally Network, with entertainment from one of Australia’s most well-regarded drag queens Verushka Darling.

Transgrid media contact: Mark Nolan 0429 047 136