Fri 7 March 2025
Diversity, equity and inclusion strengthen health care
AdPha taking action with launch of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy ahead of International Women’s Day 2025.
Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) today is embracing inclusion and accelerating action ahead of International Women's Day 2025, releasing the organisation’s first Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy.
The strategy defines diversity, equity and inclusion in the context of the organisation’s people and purpose while outlining six years of action toward inclusive leadership, diverse workforce and workplace culture, community collaboration and partnerships.
AdPha Vice President Dr Kate O'Hara FANZCAP (Neonatol., Paeds), who championed the initiative with fellow Director Brenda Shum FANZCAP (Lead&Mgmt), says the strategy formalises AdPha members’ longstanding commitment to building cultures of inclusion and respect, recognising it is the backbone of quality health care.
‘Embracing diversity, championing equity, and fostering inclusivity create meaningful impacts—not just for pharmacists and their teams, but for every patient in their care.
‘The AdPha Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy 2025-2030 has been informed by the rich and diverse voices across our membership, as part of our ongoing focus on health, wellbeing and safety, and we thank all members who contributed feedback during consultation.
‘The strategy encompasses four clear goals relating to inclusive leadership, workplace diversity, community collaboration and partnerships and advocacy, in our pursuit of health and social equity.
‘As we look ahead to International Women’s Day tomorrow, I am proud to help lead an organisation that is already accelerating action on a number of fronts to achieve gender equity.
AdPha Chief Executive Kristin Michaels FAICD, says diversity in decision-making benefits everyone.
‘Female leadership is strong at AdPha, with women comprising two-thirds of the Board of Directors, and three-quarters of elected Specialty Practice Leadership Committee positions. We support women in leadership through our network of programs and services, always ensuring women's voices are valued and heard.
‘By empowering female leadership we foster a more inclusive culture and entrench more diverse perspectives, which strengthen our decision-making and professional impact. This not only enhances our work but also brings lasting benefits to our members, their networks, and the profession as a whole.’