Adaptive Leadership Program

Frequently Asked Questions

The Adaptive Leadership Program for Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) is an experiential development training program designed to enhance the leadership skills of individuals who lead or participate in ERGs in different organisations. The program focuses on developing adaptive leadership abilities and fostering a supportive network among ERG leaders to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences.

An Employee Resource Group (ERG) is an employee-led group within an organisation that aims to support and advocate for a specific demographic or shared interest among employees. In the context of LGBTIQA+ diversity and inclusion, ERGs are formed by individuals or teams who are dedicated to promoting an inclusive and supportive workplace culture for employees who identify as LGBTIQA+.

ERGs play a crucial role in driving diversity and inclusion efforts within organisations, specifically focusing on creating a welcoming and supportive environment for LGBTIQA+ employees. These groups collaborate to foster a sense of belonging, raise awareness, provide resources and support, and advocate for policies and practices that promote equality and inclusion for the LGBTIQA+ community. ERGs serve as valuable forums for sharing experiences, building networks, and driving positive change within the organisation's diversity and inclusion initiatives.

ERGs traditionally operate on a voluntary basis, with employees participating in their spare time to drive positive change. However, an increasing number of organisations are recognising the value of ERGs and creating paid roles to support their initiatives. This acknowledgement reflects the growing importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the commitment of organisations to invest in dedicated resources to further advance LGBTIQA+ inclusion efforts.

An Employee Resource Group is known in different terms by different organisations. Examples include:

• Business Resource Group (BRG)

• Employee or Pride/Rainbow Network

• Pride/Rainbow Council or Committee

• DE&I or D&I Council or Committee

• Diversity & Inclusion Network

The Adaptive Leadershp Program for ERGs will have a maximum of 20 participants only.

The program dates are as follows:

• Induction (online): Tue 21st May 2024, 12.30pm - 1.30pm

• Intensive (in-person): Tue 28th - Thu 30th May 2024

The in-person program days will be held at a central location in Melbourne, Victoria. Venue details will be provided to participants upon registration.

Yes. Here is the fee structure:

• Corporate (for-profit organisations) $3950 inc GST

• Community (non-profit organisations) $2250 inc GST

• Book your spot by 22 March and get a 20% discount.

• Scholarships available for eligible non-profit organisations only, apply here.

The program will consist of three in-person program days and an induction conducted online one week prior to commencement.

We want this program to be accessible to participants of all abilities. Reasonable adjustments to support full participation will be accommodated. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Universal access for people using a wheelchair or other mobility devices

• Adjustments to the set up of learning spaces/venues

• Accommodating the presence of support workers at training workshops

• Alternative format learning materials

• Dietary requirements

You will be asked to provide details of the types of support or adjustments that you require at the time of registration.

If you would like to discuss your accessibility requirements with us before you submit your application please contact us on: accessibility@equality.org.au.

The Adaptive Leadership Program for Employee Resources Groups (ERGs) is an initiative of The Equality Project®. The lead facilitator for this program will be Taryn Sexton and supported by The Equality Project® team.

Advocacy Masterclass is a 2-day workshop on advocacy and campaigning skills for LGBTIQA+ community advocates. Adaptive leadership concepts will not be covered in this 2-day program.

Adaptive Leadership Program for ERGs is a 3-day intensive leadership training program that focuses on developing the leadership capacity of LGBTIQA+ leaders and allies who are involved in Employee Resource Groups within their organisations.

The Adaptive Leadership Program for ERGs is for individuals who lead Employee Resource Groups (sometimes referred to as Diversity and Inclusion Leads and other titles include D&I Managers or DE&I Officers), are responsible for driving the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts of their organisation, and are looking to enhance their leadership capabilities.

Participants must also:

• Be 18 years old or over;

• Be able to commit to attending the 3-day in-person intensive on 28-30 May as well as the induction (online) on 21st May 2024. There will be a post-program session that will also require your attendance.

• Have support from their organisation and/or senior leadership to participate.

All levels of experience are welcome, including individuals who are new to the role. No prior long-term experience in an Employee Resource Group or equivalent is required to participate.

A limited number of scholarships will be available to eligible non-profit organisations. A reduced fee of $1500 inc GST will apply. Apply for a scholarship here.

No. We welcome allies who are supportive and committed to advocating for the rights and wellbeing of the LGBTIQA+ community. Allies are individuals who may not identify as LGBTIQA+ themselves but actively work towards creating inclusive spaces, challenging discrimination, and fostering allyship within their organisations.

It's worth noting that many individuals involved in this work within Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are allies who may not personally identify as LGBTIQA+. Allies play a vital role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by supporting and advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTIQA+ employees. In fact, we need more allies to actively engage in this work and contribute to creating inclusive and supportive workplace cultures.

All levels of experience are welcome, including individuals who are new to the role. No prior long-term experience in an Employee Resource Group or equivalent is required to participate.

That’s great to hear! You can start the registration process here.

As part of your registration, please describe your role and the ways in which you’ve contributed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion for the LGBTIQA+ community within your organisation through your active involvement in an Employee Resource Group (ERG) or equivalent. If you're new to the role, please share your intentions or aspirations.

We kindly request the participant to complete the form.

If you need assistance to complete the registration form, please let us know.

Registrations close 19th April 2024.

Yes. We require the participant to complete the form and provide the invoicing contact information for payment purposes.

Here are some testimonials from participants of the Victorian LGBTIQ+ Leadership Program 2021:

• Alushka Rajaram

• Ravi Teja Bodanam

• Sav Emmett Wolfe

Please contact us at:

• mail@equality.org.au