Diversity & Inclusion Policy

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, clients, and stakeholders involved with our counselling services in Queensland, Australia.

The Abbwell Group acknowledges and celebrates the rich diversity within our community. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities feel welcomed and supported. This commitment extends to:

1. Clients: Providing culturally sensitive and inclusive counselling services tailored to individual needs.

2. Employees and Contractors: Maintaining a workplace that values diversity, ensures equal opportunities, and promotes a culture of respect.

3. Community Engagement: Partnering with diverse communities to address barriers to accessing mental health support.

• Treat all individuals with respect and dignity, valuing their unique perspectives and experiences.

• Avoid language or behaviours that could be considered discriminatory, offensive, or exclusionary.

• Ensure equal access to counselling services for all clients, including those with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and varying gender identities.

• Provide reasonable accommodations to address barriers, such as accessible facilities and communication aids.

• Provide training to employees and contractors on cultural awareness and sensitivity to better understand and support diverse clients.

• Recognise and respect cultural traditions, practices, and beliefs in the therapeutic process.

• Comply with anti-discrimination laws, including the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld), the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth), and the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth).

• We take a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying.

• Actively promote diversity in recruitment, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.

• Provide ongoing professional development to support employees from underrepresented groups.

• Regularly review policies and practices to ensure alignment with best practices in diversity and inclusion.

• Seek feedback from clients, employees, and community partners to identify and address areas for improvement.

• Leadership Accountability: Managers and leaders are responsible for modelling inclusive behaviours and ensuring the policy is implemented effectively.

• Training: All employees and contractors will receive training on diversity, inclusion, and cultural competence during onboarding and as part of ongoing professional development.

• Feedback Mechanisms: Provide avenues for clients and employees to share feedback or report concerns related to diversity and inclusion, ensuring confidentiality and timely resolution.

• Community Collaboration: Engage with community groups to understand and address unique needs and challenges in accessing counselling services.

The policy’s effectiveness will be evaluated annually through:

• Feedback from clients, employees, and stakeholders.

• Analysis of service accessibility and client outcomes.

• Review of workplace diversity metrics and employee satisfaction surveys.

This policy will be reviewed every two years or as required to ensure compliance with legislative changes and emerging best practices in diversity and inclusion.

For questions or concerns about this policy, please contact Geoffrey Atwell (Director – The Abbwell Group) at (07) 4179 0730.

By embedding these principles into our operations, we aim to create a counselling environment that honours diversity, fosters inclusion, and supports the well-being of all individuals.