In summary

  • Swinburne has received gold tier recognition from the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI)
  • The recognition was announced at the 2026 Australian LGBTQ+ Inclusion Awards, held on 29 May in Sydney
  • AWEI is the national benchmark for LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion used by nearly 200 organisations in Australia each year

Swinburne University of Technology has reached a major milestone in its diversity, equity and inclusion journey, receiving gold tier recognition from the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI).

AWEI is the national benchmark for LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion used by nearly 200 organisations in Australia each year to assess their workplace inclusion initiatives.

“This significant milestone reflects a long-standing collective commitment across Swinburne to create a workplace where LGBTQIA+ staff feel safe, respected and supported”, says Swinburne Ally Network Executive Sponsor and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Professor Karen Hapgood.

"Swinburne is the most inclusive place I have ever worked at", she says.

Swinburne was also named a finalist in the Trans and Gender Diverse Inclusion Award.

Swinburne’s road to recognition

Gold recognition acknowledges not only policy and practice, but visible leadership, allyship and sustained action to create meaningful inclusion.

Some highlights that have contributed to this recognition include initiatives like Swinburne’s annual Pride Week which is a full week of activities and events integrating education, celebration and community engagement. Events are held in partnership with queer organisations such as Queers in Science, Pride in Diversity, Out For Australia and the Pinnacle Foundation, creating opportunities for students to connect with LGBTIQA+ leaders and mentors.

The award recognised a number of other initiatives that ensured LGBTIQA+ staff and students feel supported, recognised and empowered, such as inclusive parental and gender affirmation leave entitlements, all-gender bathroom facilities and organisational tools like pronoun inclusion in email signatures, ally pins and rainbow lanyards.

Swinburne attended awards ceremony for first time

The 2026 Australian LGBTQ+ Inclusion Awards on 29 May in Sydney were a celebration of workplace inclusion, and honouring organisations and individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to LGBTQIA+ equality.

The AWEI results and award winners were announced at the award ceremony, which was attended by members of Swinburne’s Ally Network, diversity leaders and senior executives.

Dr WiL Robles (Swinburne Diversity Consultant, People and Culture and Ally Network Founder and active member) was a finalist for the LGBTQ+ Role Model Award. The nomination recognises Dr Robles as a highly visible LGBTQIA+ role model within Swinburne and the outstanding contributions made to raising awareness, advocating for and advancing LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the workplace.

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