Collecting and reporting on diversity data
A practical guide to D&I data and what to do with it
Diversity and inclusion (D&I) data is a powerful tool for D&I work
D&I data helps organisations understand the current state of inclusion in their workforce. This information helps to guide and create meaningful, future D&I business strategies. D&I data assists organisations in understanding the mix of employees in their workforce, and which inclusion areas to prioritise a focus on.
Unfortunately, many organisations don’t capture or use D&I data
Many organisations do not collect any data, while others only collect select data such as gender. Often, D&I and HR practitioners have not received training in how to collect, analyse, report on, and use D&I data in their decision-making, and may be unsure where to start.
We’re here to help
This guide will help you know how to collect and use D&I data well – whether you are collecting D&I data from scratch or updating your existing approach. It includes:
- guiding principles to ensure your D&I data approach is respectful, safe, accurate and effective
- a 4-step process to help you make the most of D&I data to drive meaningful change.
For the first time, we’ve published our suggested diversity survey questions and response options. These are available to DCA member and non-member organisations to support you in making the most of your D&I data
Members can log in to download the full guide, including guiding principles and a 4-step process for D&I data at work.
Find out more about DCA membership here.
Download D&I Data at Work: Diversity Questions and Response Options now.
Have you considered DCA's Inclusive Employer Index?
For organisations with limited internal resources, tools like DCA’s anonymous survey-based Inclusive Employer Index are a good solution. Administered in partnership with Diversity Atlas, our comprehensive survey prioritises data security and removes the work of designing your own. Participation in the Inclusive Employer Index is open to both DCA member and non-member organisations.
Organisations can compare their inclusion results against a National Workplace Benchmark (derived from a nationally representative survey of 3,000 Australian workers), a Leading Practice Benchmark (derived from DCA member organisations that participate in the Index), and (where possible) an Industry Benchmark.
Expressions of interest are now open for the 2025-2026 Inclusive Employer Index
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Suggested citation: Diversity Council Australia (R. D’Almada- Remedios), D&I Data at Work: diversity questions and response options, DCA, Sydney, 2025.
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