Bank named the best inworkplace inclusion efforts

BENDIGO Bank has been announced as employer of the year at the 2026 Australian LGBTQ+ Inclusion Awards in recognition of its efforts to foster workplace diversity, equity and inclusion.

The awards are based on results from the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI).

Introduced in 2010, the index is considered the leading benchmarking tool for LGBTQ+ inclusion in workplaces across Australia and was designed to recognise excellence in the inclusion space.

The bank also successfully retained its gold tier recognition, the highest recognition obtainable for a submission year.

Sarah Bateson, chief marketing officer and executive sponsor of Bendigo Bank’s Pride network, dedicated the title to the countless individuals working behind the scenes to drive meaningful change.

“Being named employer of the year is a massive honour for all of us,” she said.

“We know just how much hard work goes into the AWEI benchmark, which makes this recognition incredibly special.”

Bateson said it is a privilege to work for an organisation that values inclusivity so highly.

“Supported by our executives, board and dedicated diversity and inclusion focus, our commitment is to always lead with authenticity, creating a safe and welcoming environment where everyone feels they can be their true selves at work,” she said.

“The maturity of our work, from overhauling equitable leave to supporting our trans and gender-diverse colleagues, is happening because we are embedding inclusion into how we operate every single day at Bendigo Bank.

“While we are so proud to be recognised in this way, we view this award not as a finish line, but as fuel – we will keep doing the work, for our people, for our customers and for the community.”