Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

PSC values Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and strives to create an inclusive workplace. We provide fair opportunities for development, progression, and work conditions to all. We celebrate differences in age, ethnicity, gender, religion, language, physical appearance, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, and diversity of thought. We are inclusive and committed to creating a respectful and supportive environment for all individuals and groups, making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process and supportive workplace.

How we live up to our commitment

EDI Committee

The EDI committee exists to represent our diverse workforce and community – celebrating our differences, calling out opportunities for improvement and creating an environment that embraces all.

Council has adopted the following principles:

  • Treat all people with respect and dignity in accordance with Council’s values (RITES).
  • Recognise that all people are different and value this difference.
  • Use the different contributions that people can make to the team.
  • Make judgments based on fairness and merit.
  • Eliminate artificial, unfair and inappropriate barriers to workplace participation.
  • Provide appropriate means to monitor and address equity and diversity issues in the workplace.
  • Workplace structures, systems and processes help our employees balance their work, family and other responsibilities.
  • Enable our employees to find their voice through consultation on policies and decisions that affect them.
  • Council plans demonstrate that the diverse backgrounds of its people are valued.
  • Employment decisions are transparent, equitable and merit based.
  • All people behave in an acceptable manner and unacceptable behaviour is managed in accordance with Council’s processes.

Community Wellbeing Strategy

We have developed a Community Wellbeing Strategy to help create a more inclusive and healthy community.

  • The Community Wellbeing Strategy will outline our commitment to improving liveability for everyone across Port Stephens.
  • We’re streamlining existing plans and strategies and creating one easy-to-read document. Less strategies, more strategic thinking.
  • The strategy will also include actions from the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2021 to 2024, as part of our commitment to removing barriers and improving the lives of people with a disability.

Yabang Gumba-Gu (Road to Tomorrow) agreement

The Worimi are the traditional owners of the Port Stephens area. Our Council enjoys a strong relationship with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, collaborating on a range of projects that promote understanding of Aboriginal culture and celebrate their contribution to our community.

The Aboriginal Strategic Committee helps to direct Council's focus including the delivery of the Yabang Gumba-Gu or the Road to Tomorrow agreement.

The Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council provides information and opportunities to learn more about the local Worimi people and culture.