Why are Australian companies reducing DEI programs?

Australian companies are reducing DEI programs due to a global 'anti-woke' backlash, influenced by US trends, and concerns about alienating some employees.

What impact did Donald Trump's election have on DEI in Australia?

Donald Trump's election is cited by executives as having 'opened the floodgates' for challenging DEI initiatives globally, including in Australia.

Are all Australian companies cutting DEI efforts?

No, while many are toning down efforts, some companies like PwC Australia remain committed to their DEI programs, seeing them as crucial for success.

Home / Business and Economy / Execs Quietly Scale Back DEI Amid Global Backlash

Execs Quietly Scale Back DEI Amid Global Backlash

10 Dec

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Summary

One in 10 Australian executives are reducing or dropping DEI initiatives.
US-led 'anti-woke' backlash and Trump's election influenced Australian companies.
Some firms changed DEI program language, fearing alienation of non-minority staff.

Execs Quietly Scale Back DEI Amid Global Backlash

Major Australian businesses are diminishing their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in response to a global 'anti-woke' movement. A new report indicates that one in 10 senior leaders are either reducing DEI programs or discontinuing them entirely. This trend has been exacerbated by a perceived international shift following Donald Trump's election in the US, which executives believe 'opened the floodgates' for challenging local inclusion measures.

The backlash has also manifested in criticism of DEI language, with some leaders admitting that terms like 'white, pale, stale male' have been overly judgmental and alienating. This has contributed to a decline in support for LGBTQ+ inclusion efforts within workplaces. Concerns over growing hostility in public discourse have led some organizations to cease specific training, such as transgender inclusion, out of apprehension for their gender-diverse staff.