On behalf of the Victorian Public Sector Commission, I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we live and work and I pay my respects to their ancestors and elders past and present. First Nations employees bring unique knowledge, skills and experience that enrich our public service, and benefit all Victorians.
I am pleased to introduce the Victorian Public Service Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Action Plan 2026-2029.
Every Victorian deserves a public service that reflects them – and this plan makes that possible.
We are proud to champion diversity, equity and inclusion. The plan sets out how the Victorian Public Service will work towards a workplace that reflects Victoria’s diversity so we can best deliver for our community.
It deals with persistent gaps in representation, safety and opportunity, with a specific focus on:
Inclusion isn’t just an aspiration; it’s how we deliver better services and improve people’s lives.
This plan also aligns with the wider public sector Cultural Diversity Strategy and the Barring Djinang First Peoples Workforce Development Framework. Together, these strategies help guide this plan and make sure we are accountable for the progress we make.
Diversity is our strength. Equity and inclusion help that strength have an impact.
The plan includes actions for everyone in the Victorian Public Service, recognising that discrimination often intersects and compounds barriers to inclusion. Alongside targeted initiatives, we’re using what we know about our many backgrounds and social identities to drive system-wide changes that benefit all employees.
The Action Plan is grounded in Victoria’s policies and laws. It supports our obligations under State and National Plans that work to build diversity, equity and inclusion in the workforce and community.
It also reflects Victorian Public Sector values and the standards that ensure safe and respectful workplaces that operate with integrity.
Actions are organised across five focus areas:
The voices of more than 1,000 VPS employees set the foundations of this plan. Their message was clear.
Thank you to everyone who generously contributed their insights.
Delivering this plan now depends on shared commitment and transparent reporting across the VPS.
Together, we can build a public service where everyone can be themselves, feel valued, do their best work and contribute to better outcomes for all Victorians.
Brigid Monagle
Victorian Public Sector Commissioner