Driving change through diversity and inclusion

Diversity and inclusion (D&I) are essential components behind creating a safe working environment. At Defence Housing Australia (DHA), our commitment to D&I goes beyond compliance—it’s about genuinely enhancing our workplace for everyone. We strive to create a space where all employees feel they belong, can bring their authentic selves to work, and thrive in collaboration and innovation. Leading these efforts at DHA is A/g General Manager of People and Compliance, Lisa Barlin .

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What kickstarted your passion for D&I?

As a young girl, my brother and I played backyard cricket at all hours of the day. It just so happened that I had a genuine talent for cricket. As a boy, my brother had opportunities to pursue his love for the sport that either weren’t available to me as a girl or didn’t exist back then. To this day I wonder, what if?

I don’t want anyone to wonder 'what if?’ or miss out. I don’t want it to be harder for anyone to come to work because of their health, ability, their faith or who they love. I want to champion a culture where people can come as they are and where we are a group of effective allies—listening, learning, and standing up for others.

What’s your perspective on the current state of D&I at DHA?

DHA demonstrated its commitment to D&I when it was recognised as one of only three APS agencies given Inclusive Employer status by the Diversity Council Australia. That’s something that DHA, as an agency, and we as the humans working here, should all feel enormously proud of.

How do you see D&I impacting our workplace culture at DHA?

Each one of us has an important role in creating DHA’s workplace culture. When employees feel that their unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions are recognised and valued, they become more engaged in their work.

What are your hopes for the future of D&I at DHA, and how do you see the survey contributing to this vision?

My hope is that DHA continues to be an inclusive organisation where its people trust they will be treated fairly, and that their diversity and ideas are valued and respected.

Inclusion is much more than a ‘nice to have’ – it can fuel wellbeing and performance, and create a better working environment that enables innovation, effectiveness, and better customer service for ADF members and their families.

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Interested in working with us?

If you’d like to join a supportive and high performing workforce, check out our careers portal or contact our Recruitment team on [email protected] for more information.