Benefits for employers
There are real benefits to cultivating diversity in the workplace, for example:
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a diverse workforce can possibly link to potential markets with similar diversity
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diversity adds skilled employees to the job market that is currently experiencing a skills shortage
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the employer acquires more effective and targeted market research
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an increase the triple bottom line through socially responsible employment practices
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building recognition as an employer of choice thus expanding the future recruitment pool
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increasing the potential for quality customer service
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gaining an ability to create niche markets both nationally and internationally
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achieving a greater effectiveness in the development of products through a better understanding of global customers' needs
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity (HREOC) findings
It was found in the Interim Report in the National Inquiry Into Employment and Disability by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (2005) that:
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Australian and international studies show higher levels of workplace safety, performance and staff retention in employees with disability
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absenteeism is lower amongst employees with disability
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lower staff turnover amongst employees with disability (p 14).
Diversity success stories
A number of organisations have had great success as a result of implementing equal opportunity practices. Their success stories can be found at the sites listed below: