Federal Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Bill Shorten, has met with employers in Melbourne to discuss ways to boost diversity in the workplace, particularly with an aim of boosting participation rates amongst those with a disability.

 

" Today’s discussion is part of the Gillard Government’s program of initiatives for employers to support people with disability, mature age, the very long term unemployed, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and indigenous Australians, find employment and stay in employment," Mr Shorten said.

 

“To remain competitive, and to attract and recruit the people they need, employers must keep up with change."

 

The forum will include a panel discussion led by Jenny Brockie, with panel members including Mr Peter Anderson, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Ms Julie Bisinella from ANZ.

 

Mr Shorten also attended the launch of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry guide Employ Outside the Box: the Business Case for Employing People with Disability, which outlines the advantages that employees with disability bring to business.

 

The forum is part of the Federal Government’s Building Australia’s Future Workforce package, a $3 billion investment over six years to deliver the skilled workers the economy needs and ensure more Australians, including the most vulnerable job seekers, can take advantage of new opportunities and share in the nation’s prosperity.