As the operator of the freight rail network in Western Australia, Arc Infrastructure is an organisation, and part of an industry, that has a long and rich history of which we are incredibly proud. However in having as long a history as we do sometimes you can be slow to change. In my view, one of the areas that Arc and the broader industry has been slow to change is in committing to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

As a leader within our organisation and a voice across the rail industry, I am committed to advancing progress in the area of inclusivity and diversity for two specific reasons.

Firstly, it is the right thing to do. I believe Arc is able to offer rich and fulfilling career opportunities, and it is right that women and people from diverse backgrounds have an equitable opportunity to secure and enjoy employment with our organisation.

Secondly, if we fail to embrace diversity and inclusion in our organisation, then we will continue to deny ourselves the value that they bring. The evidence for this is overwhelming. Research has consistently shown that organisations with a more diverse workforce benefit from higher employee engagement, increased productivity, higher returns, better employee retention and improved brand reputation. Committing ourselves to gender equity and a more diverse workforce is an investment in the future of our business.

Eliminating inherent bias in our recruitment process, in order to improve representation across gender groups is an essential step. But committing to a diverse workforce is about more than just our hiring policies. Truly embracing diversity means creating and fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, within which all of our employees have the opportunity to flourish in their roles. By ensuring that everyone has equitable access to training and development, that we take an equitable approach to promotions, that we provide support based on each employee’s need, and that we create a workplace culture based on respect, I believe Arc will continue on our path to improved gender diversity, equity and inclusion.

As Arc strives to continue improving as an organisation in this space, I am personally committed to learning from others who have experienced and achieved more in this area, to challenging established and antiquated practices within our organisation and industry, while remaining open to being challenged on my own views, to listening to those who have experienced the impact of bias and discrimination during their careers in ways that I have not, and to being accountable to our people on our progress.

It may take time, but I am committed to doing what I can to change attitudes and practices, because everyone deserves the same opportunities.