New research in Australia reveals that gay, lesbian and transgender workers face workplace discrimination much more frequently. The Diversity Council Australia study sends a clear message: LGBTQ+ employees have considerably harder experiences than colleagues.

The Inclusion@Work Index 2025–2026 examined workplace culture for this group. Results are decidedly negative overall. Many LGBTQ+ workers feel excluded at work. Some cannot openly be themselves professionally. This creates stress and poor working conditions. Employers have not always taken sufficient action yet.

The study highlights specific problems clearly. Many companies lack strong anti-discrimination policies. Training for managers is frequently missing. Complaints are not always taken seriously either. Result: LGBTQ+ workers feel unwelcome in their roles.

Researchers are direct: companies must do better. Stronger policies help significantly. Everyone must understand discrimination and why it matters. Workers need confidence reporting issues without fearing retaliation. Australian employers now have concrete recommendations. But will they actually act?