Session 1: From Commitment to Impact: Embedding DEI into the Systems that Shape Work
- Virtual Webinar
- 17 November 2026
- Free for AHRI members
DEI Week
Discover practical strategies to embed DEI into leadership and workplace systems that drive meaningful outcomes for people and performance
Diversity, equity and inclusion activities are increasingly expected to deliver measurable organisational outcomes, not simply standalone programs or statements of intent. This session will explore how organisations can embed inclusion into the systems, decisions and leadership practices that shape everyday work, strengthening accountability, and creating more positive outcomes through people and performance.
Speakers
Moderator
David Cao He/Him
Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Westpac
Bio
David (he/him) leads Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Westpac Group, driving inclusive culture and diverse representation. Formerly Chief Business Development Officer and Chief of Staff at BOQ, he’s passionate about intersectionality and community impact. David mentors at Sydney Uni and Pinnacle Foundation, with prior experience in banking and consulting.
Panellist
Caroline Tjoa She/Her
Program Director, Champions of Change Coalition
Bio
Caroline is Program Director at Champions of Change Coalition, driving inclusion and gender equality with CEOs and senior leaders. She brings over a decade of experience from the Australian Human Rights Commission and leads initiatives advancing disability employment, workplace respect, and safety. Caroline empowers leaders to create lasting cultural change.
Panellist
Katie Wyatt She/Her
Head of DEI,
BHP Group
Bio
Katie Wyatt, a Noongar/Yamatji woman, leads Global DEI at BHP, fostering inclusion for 80,000 employees. With 20+ years across sectors, she champions business as a force for social change. Her career spans strategy, innovation, and stakeholder engagement, grounded in cultural strength and a commitment to respectful, inclusive workplaces.
Panellist
Katherine Jeffries MAHRI She/Her
Director of Inclusion Policy, Australian Public Service Commission
Bio
Katherine Jeffries is an Inclusion and Diversity specialist in the Australian Public Service with 15 years’ experience advancing equity across government. She’s led major initiatives in Defence, PM&C, and the APS Commission, and is passionate about embedding inclusion as business as usual. Katherine is also a proud mum and avid reader.
Panellist
Fiona Davies CPHR She/Her
Senior Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Partner, Australia Post
Bio
Fiona is a DEI leader with 15 years’ experience across corporate, NGO, professional services, and government sectors. She integrates DEI into strategy and culture, leads diverse teams, and drives change through data and storytelling. Fiona specialises in embedding inclusion into organisational purpose and creating culturally strong, inclusive workplaces.
