Launch of the FBE and MBS Disability Inclusion Network

The Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE) and Melbourne Business School (MBS) proudly launched the Disability Inclusion Network (DIN) on November 29, 2024. This significant event marked a milestone in the faculty's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and accessible environment for all staff and students.

The DIN is a staff-led representative group that promotes community, connection, visibility, and support, particularly for staff with lived disabilities and those who are carers for individuals with disabilities. The network aims to advance cross-faculty collaborations and enhance disability inclusion practices within FBE and MBS.

DIN Launch Presentation

Event highlights:

The launch event featured a series of insightful presentations, showcasing the initiatives and resources driving disability inclusion at the University:

  • Paul Jensen, representing the faculty’s senior leadership, emphasised the importance of the network and reaffirmed FBE’s commitment to creating a safe and equitable environment for all who work and learn in our community.
  • Imogen Knight presented on the Parents’ Room upgrade and the creation of FBE’s first Sensory Room, designed to support staff who experience sensory overload or require a moment of calm in a busy work environment.
  • Flora Kuang introduced the upcoming Disability Inclusion Resources webpage, which will centralise vital information and support for staff and students. This webpage, set to launch in January 2025, will provide resources on workplace adjustments, advocacy networks, accessible campus facilities, and more.
  • Veni Jee shared details about the faculty’s participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Initiative, which empowers individuals with non-visible disabilities to signal their need for patience, understanding, or support discreetly.
  • Representatives from WAIS, Employee Relations, and EAP delivered presentations on the services available to staff, including workplace adjustments, emergency plans, and mental health support.

The event concluded with Diana Dalton, Executive Director, delivering closing remarks. Diana acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Flora Kuang, who will step down from her role as Assistant Dean, Diversity and Inclusion, in January 2025. Diana emphasised the ongoing support for the DIN and invited attendees to express their interest in joining the network to contribute to its mission of fostering a truly inclusive community.

Looking ahead

The DIN and its initiatives represent an important step toward building a culture of inclusion within FBE and MBS. Staff members are encouraged to stay engaged, explore the resources shared during the event, and consider joining the DIN Steering Committee to help shape the future of diversity and inclusion in our faculty.

For more information about the Disability Inclusion Network or the resources discussed during the launch, please email fbembsl-di@unimelb.edu.au.