At their July meeting, Council adopted its inaugural Rainbow Action Plan for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
Under the Plan, Council commits to educating staff and volunteers on LGBTIQA+ inclusion, to provide inclusive workspaces, to ensure that LGBTIQA+ residents take part in Council committees and planning, to support LGBTIQA+ events such as ChillOut, to ensure the safety of LGBTIQA+ residents, and to monitor and report on the success and progress of the Plan.
The Plan re-commits Council to achieving equality for LGBTIQA+ people, to end discrimination and to defend the fundamental human rights of LGBTIQA+ people.
The plan will help to ensure that all LGBTIQA+ people feel supported, connected, visible and safe in our community. It will also guide Council in providing an inclusive workplace for its LGBTIQA+ staff and volunteers.
Mayor, Cr Brian Hood, said the plan commits Council to a clear and achievable set of actions to create a safe and welcoming community for all LGBTIQA+ people.
“Our Shire recognises and celebrates the important contributions that our LGBTIQA+ people, businesses and visitors bring to the life of our Shire. Together, we share an inclusive, resilient, vibrant, sustainable, innovative and diverse community,” he said.
“Council is committed to treating all people fairly, equitably and with respect. We will not tolerate discrimination or violence in any form, against any part of our community,” said Cr Hood.
Hepburn Shire Council is one of only 18 local government authorities in Victoria to adopt an LGBTIQA+ Action Plan, further evidence of their role as a leader in gender equality and equity and promoting respect and safety in the community.
The Rainbow Action Plan is available at Rainbow-Action-Plan.(PDF, 1MB)
This article is based on a media release from Hepburn Shire Council.
