VPS LGBTIQ+ Pride Network

About the network

We connect Victorian Public Sector (VPS) LGBTIQ+ employees and encourage an LGBTIQ+ inclusive culture. This allows the government to be an inclusive employer, decision-maker and service provider for LGBTIQ+ Victorians.

Our workforce is at its best when it reflects the communities we serve. This helps us to develop better policies and programs and improve service delivery for all Victorians.

Find out what some of our members think about being part of the network and why it's important to them in the video below.

What does the network do?

We organise:

• networking events
• sessions and panel discussions to explore LGBTIQ+ issues and workplace inclusion
• events to mark days of significance to LGBTIQ+ communities.

We also:

• offer advice to departments and agencies on the needs and priorities of their LGBTIQ+ staff
• raise awareness about the specific challenges and experiences LGBTIQ+ staff have at work, and identify and advocate on issues for LGBTIQ+ public servants
• work with sector People and Culture teams to improve policy and practice
• build LGBTIQ+ and ally staff networks and support organisational human resources capability to embed LGBTIQ+ diversity in practice across the Victorian Public Sector
• promote inclusion to make the Victorian Public Sector a safe place for LGBTIQ+ staff to be who they are
• connect LGBTIQ+ staff and allies through professional and social networking opportunities.

Some of our biggest initiatives to date include:

• starting an LGBTIQ+ specific Employee Assistance Program
• coordinating the annual VPS participation in the Midsumma Pride March
• starting and continuing to run the annual VPS LGBTIQ+ Pride Awards to recognise and celebrate achievement in LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion in VPS workplaces
• helping to distribute thousands of rainbow lanyards to public sector workers across Victoria.

How can I get involved?

The network is open to all LGBTIQ+ staff and allies from all parts of the VPS. Everyone is welcome.

There are many ways you can get involved:

• Join our Innovation Network group.
• For the latest updates from VPS Pride, join our newsletter mailing list.
• Trans, gender diverse, intersex and gender queer staff are invited to the GenSHED on the Innovation Network.
• Join our Communications, Events or Inclusion portfolio teams by contacting us.
• Attend events - we advertise them on the Innovation Network and in our Newsletter.

Departments and agencies also have their own network you can join. Check your intranet for details.