The Respect, Equity and Diversity (RED) Framework

"The Respect, Equity and Diversity Framework was established in 2010 across the ACT Public Sector (ACTPS). The principles of respect, equity and diversity are not only right, they are critical to the ongoing success of the ACTPS. Valuing diversity and creating respectful and fair workplaces leads to increased employee engagement, heightened levels of workplace participation and innovation as a result of diverse thinking. Our Canberra community rightfully expects increasing quality and innovative services, so the benefits of embracing respect, equity and diversity simply make sense.

The fundamental principles of respect, equity and diversity enables us to create a positive workplace culture and gives employees the opportunity to get involved, contribute and to perform to their full potential, enhancing the productivity and sustainability of our ACTPS.

Moving forward, the ACTPS is committed to sustaining the positive shifts already underway and supporting new initiatives to further improve and develop the RED Framework as a key element in promoting and supporting a diverse, inclusive and overall positive workplace."

Bronwen Overton-Clarke
Commissioner for Public Administration
April 2015

Introduction to the Respect, Equity and Diversity Framework

The ACT Public Service (ACTPS) is committed to creating a positive, respectful, supportive and fair work environment where employee differences are respected, valued and utilised to create a productive and collaborative workplace. Ensuring that all ACTPS employees, irrespective of their position, background or individual differences model the ACTPS values and general obligations of employees as described in the Public Sector Management Act 1994 (PSM Act) is also core to creating a respectful and positive work culture for the ACTPS.

The RED Framework supports the ACTPS to meet its obligations under the PSM Act and supports ACTPS employees to understand expectations regarding their own and others' behaviour in the workplace. In particular, the RED Framework is aligned with the ACTPS Code of Conduct (2013) to fully integrate the ACTPS Values and Signature Behaviours into everyday work practice.

For further information, please see the ACTPS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Framework [PDF PDF 1.4MB] and the ACTPS People with Disability Employment Framework [PDF PDF 238KB].

Review of the Respect, Equity and Diversity Framework

In 2014, a review of the RED Framework was conducted to assess its success in promoting a values and behaviour based workplace with a positive culture. This review identified that the implementation of the RED Framework has better supported the ACTPS to identify and act upon unacceptable workplace behaviour and further develop a positive workplace culture.

The review identified six recommendations to assist the ACTPS to move to the next iteration of its journey to embed a positive workplace culture. The implementation of these recommendations has commenced and ACTPS employees will see a reinvigoration of the RED Framework and a renewed focus on the ACTPS Employment Strategies over 2015.

RED Framework documents

Resolving Workplace Issues

Under the Respect, Equity and Diversity (RED) Framework (2010), the Respect at Work Policy and the Preventing Work Bullying Guidelines were developed to provide ACT Public Service (ACTPS) employees with information relating to treating others with respect in the workplace and preventing unacceptable behaviour such as bullying, harassment and discrimination.

All related documents are available on the Resolving Workplace Issues page.

Respect, Equity and Diversity Strategies

RED Principles

A workplace culture that is respectful, courteous, and fair and that values individual differences is a core aspect of building a positive workplace culture. Promoting equity and diversity is a key component of managing employees and by focusing on building a positive and respectful culture we will enhance the performance of all employees. An ACT Public Service workforce that reflects the ACT community demographics will also support us, as a public service, to understand and deliver quality services to our community. The benefits of valuing diversity and creating respectful and fair workplaces include increased employee engagement, heightened levels of workplace participation and innovation due to diverse thinking. In a community that demands higher quality and ever increasing services, the benefits of embracing respect, equity and diversity simply make good business sense. Valuing and capitalising on employee diversity leads to productive workplaces that will assist in the retention and attraction of employees, through enhanced morale, increased job satisfaction and productivity.

The ACTPS commitment to Respect, Equity and Diversity is reflected in the following principles:

  • Leaders value and promote Respect, Equity and Diversity;
  • Strategic and operational plans incorporate Respect, Equity and Diversity strategies;
  • Attracting and retaining a diverse ACT Public Service;
  • Improving the capability of our workforce;
  • Respect and courtesy in the workplace is practised;
  • Promoting Equity in our employment practices; and
  • Work/life balance is promoted and supported.

RED Roles and Responsibilities

Open Door Protocol

Australian Disability Network's Director Guide