Drivers of change: The role of institutions and leaders in driving racial equity and inclusion

Anti-Discrimination NSW (ADNSW) invites you to join an important event exploring the role of institutions and leaders in driving racial equity and inclusion.

As part of ADNSW's Thought Leadership Series and in recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, this event brings together leading voices shaping what change looks like across government, corporate and academic sectors. 

Following a keynote address by Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman, a panel discussion will focus on how leaders and organisations can take responsibility for advancing racial equity, tackling barriers and leveraging enablers to overcome systemic racism and implement proven strategies that foster inclusion. Panellists will share compelling examples and case studies that demonstrate successful approaches and progress in action.

Be part of this forward-looking conversation that aims to guide decision-makers beyond current challenges toward a more equitable and inclusive future!

Event details

Date: Thursday 12 March 2026

Time: 10am to 11:30am 
          (Registration and morning tea from 10.00am, official event/online livestream starts 10:30am)

Venue: In-person (at the Parramatta Square Business & Events Centre, Podium Level 2, 4 Parramatta Square, 12 Darcy Street, Parramatta) and online.

For online tickets, the MS Teams link will be provided on registration. Please register for this event by Tuesday 10 March 2026.

If you have accessibility requirements, please contact adbmedia@justice.nsw.gov.au to let us know how we can support you.

Keynote speaker

Giridharan Sivaraman 
Race Discrimination Commissioner | Australian Human Rights Commission

Giridharan Sivaraman commenced as Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner in March 2024. Prior to becoming Commissioner, he was Principal Lawyer with Maurice Blackburn where he led the firm’s Queensland Employment Law department. He also held the position of Chair of Multicultural Australia from 2021-2024 and was a member of the Queensland Multicultural Advisory Council from 2019-2024, where he was an advocate for the rights of victims of racial vilification.

Panellists

Prof. Nareen Young
Associate Dean (Indigenous Engagement and Leadership), Professor Indigenous Policy | UTS Business School

As one of Australia’s most respected workplace diversity practitioners and thought leaders, Professor Young is responsible for introducing many valuable concepts to Australian diversity practice over the years, for which her leadership has been acknowledged with many awards and accolades. Bringing her First Nations and culturally diverse heritages to all her work, Professor Young continues to hold numerous governance and advisory positions in the community, government and corporate spheres.  

Jessica Singh

Principal Project Manager, Anti-Racism Unit | Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ)

Jessica Singh is the Principal Project Manager in the Anti-Racism Unit in DCJ. Jess leads the development and implementation of anti-racism initiatives across DCJ, working to embed culturally safe and inclusive practices throughout the department. Her work centres on ensuring that all communities - particularly those impacted by systemic racism - have equitable access to services and support within the justice system.

Lisa Woodland

Director, Equity and Prevention Service | South Eastern Sydney Local Health District and NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service

Lisa Woodland is the Director of the Equity and Prevention Service at South Eastern Sydney Local Health District and the NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service. A registered psychologist with more than 20 years’ experience working alongside multicultural communities, she focuses on reducing health inequities by making services more inclusive and culturally responsive. More recently, Lisa has led critical research and practical strategies to address racism within health settings.

Moderator

Dr Shanthi Robertson
Managing Director | The Insight Centre

Dr Shanthi Robertson is the Managing Director of The Insight Centre, a research consultancy for social purpose and public interest organisations. With 20 years' experience across academic research and consulting, she has worked with Commissions, government departments, advocacy organisations and universities, leading research for evidence-driven communications and advocacy, and working with culturally and linguistically diverse and First Nations communities. 

Speakers

Chris D'Aeth

A/President | Anti-Discrimination NSW

Chris D'Aeth was appointed acting President in March 2025. He is the Deputy Secretary of the Courts, Tribunals and Service Delivery Division at the NSW Department of Communities and Justice. With extensive experience in legal and administrative roles, Chris oversees the efficient operation of courts and tribunals in NSW, ensuring accessible and effective justice services.

Mia Zahra

A/Director | Anti-Discrimination NSW

Mia Zahra is the acting Director at Anti-Discrimination NSW. Over the past two decades, Mia has held various leadership roles at the Department of Communities and Justice and Legal Aid NSW. Mia has also worked at the South Australian Attorney-General's Department including Multicultural SA and the Equal Opportunity Commission of SA.

About the ADNSW Thought Leadership Series

The ADNSW Thought Leadership Series brings together thought leaders and practitioners who work to strengthen anti-discrimination policies and practices in NSW. We aim to create a platform to promote conversation and best practice. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to learn more about upcoming events.