Victoria University (VU) has won gold at the 2025 Australian LGBTQI+ Inclusion Awards, the second year in a row it has been recognised as a gold employer.
The awards are based on the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), a nationwide benchmarking and survey activity measuring LGBTIQA+ inclusion for staff at workplaces across the country.
VU was recognised for making a deeper and more intersectional pledge to inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community with initiatives and celebrations supporting trans and gender diverse staff and students and targeted education across the university.
These initiatives, celebrations and advocacy were promoted by VU’s Pride Network.
Member of the Pride Network leadership team Tessa Benson (she/her) said visibility backed by action is what truly drives change.
“ At VU, we’re building a culture where LGBTQIA+ staff and students don’t just feel welcome—they feel seen, heard, and valued,” Ms Benson said.
“That means leadership commitment, active allyship and making inclusion part of our everyday decisions. Real change happens when people can show up as their full authentic selves and know they’ll be embraced for it.”
VU’s equality, inclusion and belonging lead, Sara Austin (she/her), said the whole university was thrilled to be recognised.
“We look forward to celebrating with community and working further to build a more inclusive VU where you can be uniquely you,” Ms Austin said.
