Information & Resources

Glossary

Monash uses the acronym LGBTIQA+ to be as inclusive as possible. We acknowledge that other variations of this acronym exist and are also valid. To learn more about terminology view our glossary.

Policies and procedures

We seek to ensure all our policies and procedures are inclusive. Whether specifically stated or not, all HR policies and procedures apply equally to LGBTIQA+ staff, their partners and their families, as they do to heterosexual employees.

Terms such as ‘spouse’, ‘partner’ and ‘family’, as well as defined equivalent terminology, include same-sex relationships and people of diverse genders, as well as their families.

Our Equity, Diversity and Anti-discrimination Policy demonstrates the University’s commitment to promoting equal opportunity in employment, education, service delivery, provision of accommodation, and sport in accordance with universal principles of equity, fairness and social justice and in accordance with anti-discrimination laws.

We support staff affirming their gender at work through our Gender affirmation procedure.

Capturing gender data inclusively

The University has developed a guidance document for researchers, students and other staff on how to inclusively capture gender in research, surveys, registrations or other forms.

Specialist HR contacts

All members of the Staff Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team have completed Ally training and can provide advice for staff, managers and supervisors about LGBTIQA+ inclusion at Monash. All conversations will be treated with sensitivity and in line with our privacy procedure. Contact staff-equity@monash.edu or phone 03 9902 9915 to speak with a staff member who is a trained LGBTIQA+ ally and a registered Ally Network member.

Unacceptable behaviour, discrimination and harassment

Complaints of unacceptable behaviour, including discrimination, harassment and bullying are addressed via the Resolution of Unacceptable Behaviour and Discrimination Procedure. Staff wishing to seek advice on navigating unacceptable behaviour should consult this procedure. They may also wish to contact Respectful and Ethical Conduct, Monash HR for a private discussion at ethical.conduct.queries@monash.edu or phone Kylie Wells (she/her) on 03 9902 4945. Kylie is a trained LGBTIQA+ ally and a registered Ally Network member.

External expertise

Monash engages with external agencies for their expert knowledge and advice to guide our LGBTIQA+ staff inclusion practices and initiatives.

We are members of Pride in Diversity, the national not-for-profit employer support program for LGBTIQA+ workplace inclusion specialising in HR, organisational change and workplace diversity.

Additionally, we have a relationship with Transgender Victoria who can offer advice and support for our transgender and gender diverse staff.

For more information contact staff-equity@monash.edu

Partner organisations

As part of our commitment to LGBTIQA+ inclusion, we have conveyed the importance we place on inclusive practices and are confident in their ability to assist all our employees.

The following organisations have confirmed that their products and services are inclusive of LGBTIQA+ staff, their partners and families:

Counselling

Monash University’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has a network of over 100 counselling clinicians who have experience and sensitivity in counselling members of the LGBTIQA+ community.  Staff can request one of these professional and supportive clinicians when making an EAP appointment.  Counselling is available over the phone, face-to-face, online or via live chat.

Events and community engagement

Each year Monash encourages participation in LGBTIQA+ events and dates of significance.  These activities help build our sense of community and are a platform to advocate for LGBTIQA+ inclusion:

  • International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT)
  • International Transgender Day of Remembrance
  • Midsumma Pride March

Staff are encouraged to engage with our LGBTIQA+ community and Allies. Find out about past and upcoming events.

Training

In addition to Ally Network training which is open to all staff we can facilitate the delivery of tailored training to support your team in LGBTIQA+ inclusion. For more information contact staff-equity@monash.edu.

Connect with other LGBTIQA+ staff at Monash

Workplace is a great way to connect with others at Monash.  If you identify as LGBTIQA+ and want to join the Queer Peers LGBTIQA+ Staff group, email Asher Cameron at asher.cameron@monash.edu. The group is secret, allowing staff to join without coming out publicly.

Further information for staff and managers (staff only)

We have comprehensive information and resources on LGBTIQA+ workplace inclusion for staff and managers in our staff equity toolkit. Topics covered include:

  • LGBTIQA+ workplace inclusion
  • Support for managers and supervisors
  • Being an effective Ally at work
  • Support for transgender and gender diverse staff
  • Support for intersex staff