Diversity and Inclusion

DVNQ Reconciliation Action Plan 

DVNQ recognises that inclusion is an ongoing commitment and an evolving space. The organisation remains dedicated to continuous learning and improvement, ensuring that inclusivity is at the core of everything we do.

Separate to the Diversity and Inclusion Working Group, DVNQ also continues to meet regularly to identify and implement actions that build cultural capability and cultural safety across our organisation. The Conciliation Working Group works to a Terms of Reference, Action Plan and overarching Conciliation Commitment Document. 

The Diversity and Inclusion Working Group is responsible for:
  • Promoting up-to-date education and training for staff.
  • Developing an informed understanding of the unique needs of clients, staff, and stakeholders.
  • Supporting the implementation of inclusive practices across the organisation.

To achieve these objectives, DVNQ has developed a Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, which:
  • Breaks down individual cohorts and identifies target areas for continuous improvement.
  • Establishes specific action plans for targeted groups to enhance service delivery and client experience.
  • Aligns with the overarching goal of fostering inclusivity through dedicated working groups.

DVNQ maintains a Diversity and Inclusion Working Group to strengthen safe practice and ensure alignment with community expectations.

The purpose of this group is to ensure the organisation responds appropriately to the needs of disadvantaged, vulnerable, complex, and/or minority clients, while providing a safe and informed practice environment for all individuals engaging with our services.

DVNQ recognises the diversity of cultures, languages and experiences within the communities we serve and acknowledges the additional barriers this may create. We are committed to culturally safe, inclusive, and responsive practices that reduce language barriers and ensure individuals are supported to share their stories, be heard, and access our services equitably. DVNQ is guided by the Multicultural Queensland Charter (Multicultural Recognition Act, 2016) which supports equitable access to services for all people to help build a fair community. 

LGBTQIA+SB Affirming Organisation 

Culturally Safe Organisation

DVNQ recognises the unique experience of First Nations peoples and the impacts of intergenerational trauma. DVNQ is committed to cultural safety as an active practice that goes beyond the absence of racism, and to celebrate and promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The voice of First Nations Peoples is heard and respected throughout our organisation. 

Age Friendly Organisation 

DVNQ is proudly a Child Safe Organisation committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people and supports their right to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect, in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (Articles 1–54), recognising every child’s right to be treated with dignity, respect, and care. DVNQ supports the participation of children and young people and ensures they can safely access our services and have their voices heard.
DVNQ acknowledges the rights, needs and vulnerabilities of older people and is committed to protecting their safety, wellbeing and dignity. DVNQ supports inclusive and age‑responsive practices in line with An Age Friendly Queensland: The Queensland Seniors Strategy 2024-2029 that reduce barriers, promote participation and ensure equitable access to our organisation.

Working in line with Queensland’s Disability Plan 2022–27: Together, a better Queensland, DVNQ is committed to equitable, inclusive, and accessible practices that recognise and respond to the needs of people living with disability. We strive to identify and reduce barriers, both physical and psychological, for participation for all staff and clients across our organisation.

Accessible Organisation 

Multiculturally Welcoming Organisation 

DVNQ recognises the specific and unique needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+SB people, and the additional barriers and risks associated, particularly for those affected by DFV. We are committed to providing a safe, informed, welcoming, and inclusive service environment for clients and staff, to ensure those who may identify feel safe to be themselves. 

Recognising the multiple factors that shape people’s lives

DVNQ acknowledges that multiple factors that shape people’s lives and recognises the diverse, complex, and ever evolving nature of human experience. Individuals may experience a range of overlapping identities and barriers beyond those specifically outlined, and we acknowledge this space for continuous learning, reflection and growth in our practice. 

We recognise the intersectionality of identities and experiences and are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, responsive, and supportive environment that respects diversity and responds to individual needs in ways that are appropriate, equitable, and safe for both staff and clients, where possible and appropriate to do so.