7.    Key Council Policies and Plans

7.6.    Equal Employment Opportunities Policy

It is Council’s aim to encourage and accommodate difference in the workplace, not only as a means of ensuring compliance with the Human Rights Act 1993, but also as a means to attract a broad base of skills and talent from all sectors of society. In order to meet these aims, Council has in place an Equal Employment Opportunities Policy.

Council’s objectives in relation to its Equal Employment Opportunities Policy are to:

• review equal employment opportunities regularly and to ensure that all staff are aware and fully informed of Council’s policy and practices;
• continue non-discriminatory recruitment policies and practices to ensure the widest diversity of applicants;
• select the best person, based on job requirement and ability to perform the duties of the position, and in so doing, recognise the need for a more representative workforce;
• maintain a workplace free of discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, colour, ethnic or national origin, gender, religion, marital status, family responsibilities, sexual orientation, age or people with disabilities;
• ensure that all staff have the opportunity and support to participate in training and education both inside and outside the organisation; 
• ensure that Council’s employment policy and practices comply with the requirements of the Human Rights Act 1993.

As a part of this policy Council will build a work environment within the organisation which is supportive and respects the differences of individuals. Council is committed to creating a workforce which ensures all employees and potential employees receive fair and equitable treatment. Equal employment opportunities will encourage the fullest use of all talents and skills available, and result in a Council that is more responsive to employment needs and aspirations of employees.

A copy of Council’s Equal Employment Opportunities Policy is available on request.