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Believe in good

Commitment to inclusion

The Salvation Army is a worldwide movement known for its acceptance and unconditional love for all people.

The Bible says

“God so loves the world”

John 3:16, RGT
As both a church and charity, we believe all people are loved by God and are worthy of having their needs met. Everyone is welcome to find love, hope and acceptance at The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army Australia Territory wishes to acknowledge that members of the LGBTIQA+ community have experienced hurt and exclusion because of mixed comments and responses made in the past. We acknowledge the past mistakes made by The Salvation Army and the hurt that many LGBTIQA+ community members still hold. We are sorry for the harmed caused. As a movement we commit to ongoing improvement, learning from past mistakes and growing in understanding, acceptance and respect. In particular, we are focused on having an open dialogue with all community members around our inclusive practices. ​We are on a journey; we are getting it right in some places but there is still work to be done to ensure all community members feel safe and welcomed in our spaces.​

The Salvation Army is committed to inclusive practice that recognises and values diversity. We are ensuring our services affirm the right to equality, fairness, and decency for all LGBTIQA+ people, rectifying all forms of discriminatory practice throughout the organisation.

We seek to partner with LGBTIQA+ people and allies to work with us to build an inclusive, accessible and culturally safe environment in every aspect of Salvation Army organisation and services. Everyone has a right to feel safe and respected.

Rainbow Tick Accreditation

Rainbow Tick Accreditation

35 Salvation Army social service locations in Victoria are Rainbow Tick Accredited, including the Territorial Head Quarters.

 

The Salvation Army is committed to ongoing open dialogue and learning from partners and community members.

Our focus areas for diversity, equity and inclusion

We are currently focused on six areas where we know inclusion requires active, intentional effort on our part. These areas are connected. Progress in one strengthens can strengthen all the others.
Inclusion Advisory Group

Inclusion Advisory Group

Inclusion is part of who we are

Through our strategy and governance, we are building a whole-organisation approach where diversity, equity and inclusion are woven into our services, workplaces and faith communities.

All ages are welcome

All ages are welcome

We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of people of all ages

We are a child safe organisation and are dedicated to protecting children from harm, and offer a suite of programs to meet the unique needs of all age groups.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

We are committed to reconciliation

We acknowledge parts of our history have contributed to profound grief and loss experienced by First Nations communities.

Cultural and linguistic diversity

Cultural and linguistic diversity

Australia is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse countries in the world

We want to celebrate this and encourage people from all cultural and linguistic backgrounds to be welcomed and respected in everything we do. 

Disability inclusion and accessibility

Disability inclusion and accessibility

We are open to everyone

People with disability should be able to take part, share their skills and lead without barriers.

Gender equity

Gender equity

We stand for the equal dignity and leadership of women and men

Our founders, William and Catherine Booth, championed the right of women to preach, lead and serve. We are proud of the many women who have shaped our movement.

LGBTIQA+ community

LGBTIQA+ community

Safe spaces for everyone

We are committed to creating safe, respectful and affirming spaces for LGBTIQA+ people in our services, our workplaces and our faith communities.

Workplace culture

Our commitment to inclusion also extends to our workplace. We have and welcome people from all backgrounds, abilities and identities.