Choosing contact people

A small business would only require one equal opportunity contact person. Larger organisations may need a contact person in each branch, section or department. All staff should know who their contact person is.

Who makes a good contact person?

Good contact people:

• reflect the diversity and gender balance of the workplace
• are senior enough to be taken seriously
• have the confidence of the staff
• are able to deal with personal and sensitive issues
• maintain confidentiality yet can judge when an issue needs to be referred to management.

How to choose contact people

• Define the contact person role, limiting it to information and support, not complaint handling.
• Call for expressions of interest.
• Invite people recommended by staff, their union or supervisor to nominate.
• Consult with appropriate staff before appointing.
• Never force a person to take on the role.
• Ensure contact people represent your workforce and are trained.

Once you have appointed a contact person, have them trained. They can attend a contact person training course at the Equal Opportunity Commission.