Bendigo Bank crowned 'Employer of the Year' at 2026 Australian LGBTQ+ Inclusion Awards

The prestigious award, announced on Friday evening at the 2026 Australian LGBTQ+ Inclusion Awards in Sydney, recognises Bendigo Bank’s mature and embedded approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Grounded in the rigorous results of the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), the Bank also successfully retained its Gold Tier Recognition, cementing its position as a national leader in fostering a safe and inclusive workplace environment.

Sarah Bateson, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Sponsor of the Bank’s Pride network, accepted the award on behalf of the Bank, dedicating the win 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 at Bendigo Bank. We know just how much hard work goes into the AWEI benchmark, which makes this recognition incredibly special," Ms 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,” Ms Bateson concluded.