Australian employers cut back on diversity and inclusion programs amid US ‘anti-woke’ backlash

The GuardianWednesday, December 10, 2025 at 12:00:36 AM
Australian employers cut back on diversity and inclusion programs amid US ‘anti-woke’ backlash
  • Major Australian employers are scaling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, with some even discontinuing initiatives entirely, as a response to a growing US-led backlash against such efforts, often labeled as ‘anti-woke’. This trend has been highlighted in a recent report by Pride in Diversity, which indicates that the election of Donald Trump has significantly influenced these changes.
  • The reduction of DEI initiatives could have profound implications for workplace culture and inclusivity in Australia, potentially undermining efforts to foster a diverse workforce. Companies that withdraw from these programs may face reputational risks and challenges in attracting and retaining talent from diverse backgrounds.
  • This development reflects a broader global trend where political climates influence corporate policies on diversity and inclusion. The backlash against DEI initiatives in the US, marked by controversial policies and rhetoric from figures like Donald Trump, resonates internationally, prompting similar reactions in other countries, including Australia, where businesses are reconsidering their commitments to inclusivity.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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