CQUni student investigates workplace discrimination
Published on 22 July, 2010
A CQUniversity Masters student is putting the spotlight on discrimination in the workplace through a new research project...
Nathan Barrett (based in Gladstone) is examining the extent of discrimination in the workplace based on the sexuality or sexual identity of employees in Queensland.
CQUni Gladstone's Nathan Barrett is undertaking a research project looking at discrimination in the workplace.Mr Barrett said the project looks at discrimination in the workplace faced by gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex (GLBTI) employees.
"This study will explore discrimination against GLBTI workers in Queensland. It will add to the very limited knowledge of GLBTI discrimination in the workplace in Australia.
"One of the biggest aims for this research is to inform HR practitioners about the types of discrimination faced by these employees, so that policies can be put in place to combat discrimination."
This is the first study to be conducted in Queensland looking at differences between the discrimination experienced by GLBTI employees in the city and those in rural areas.
Although similar research has previously been conducted in Sydney and Melbourne metropolitan areas, these issues have not been investigated in the context of regional Australia, in particular in regional areas encompassing traditionally male dominated professions (e.g. the mining industry).
An online survey will be utilised to determine the extent of discrimination experienced in the workplace by GLBTI individuals.
Anyone wishing to participate in the research can find the survey online at www.cqu.edu.au/rainbowsuits.