Equity Framework
There is great work happening to improve equity across Queensland. Together we can build on these efforts to create an equitable chance for all Queenslanders to thrive.
Why an Equity Framework?
Inequity is unfair and avoidable
Inequity means many Queenslanders experience doing without, being left out or being hindered. This is unfair and doesn’t have to be that way. Not only are individuals affected, but it also has broader costs.
Inequity isn’t the fault of the individual experiencing it. Broader societal factors are at play. The conditions around people can be reshaped to make things fair for everyone so we can all thrive.
Change can happen when we understand the reasons behind unfairness. We can work together with a common understanding to shift those underlying reasons. Together, our action can amplify impact and improve equity in Queensland.
Download the Equity Framework overview (PDF, 2MB)
Learn more about the Equity Framework
Download the guide for policy makers (PDF, 1MB)
Transcript
In a world where everyone deserves an equal chance, but everyone is unique – our story begins.
Meet Alecca.
As Alecca moves through life, there are characteristics that shape their current situation and future potential.
Some characteristics stay the same, some change.
These characteristics are influenced by ourselves, our beliefs and experiences, our families and our place.
And characteristics are influenced by the conditions around us – the systems, structures, practices and dominant thinking of the time.
Everything interacts, and can keep Alecca left out, doing without or hindered.
Some things are in Alecca’s control, but much is not.
By showing the connected parts that operate beneath the surface, policymakers and professionals can understand how inequity plays out in Queensland. This helps us understand where and how to act.
Learn more about how to address the barriers that are holding inequity in place.
What can be done to help shape better conditions around Alecca?
In everything we do, we can act at three levels at the same time. Whether we are a leader, a policy officer, a service provider or any human being.
We can welcome diverse views and widen our perspectives. To do this, we need to understand how we see the world, as our biases and assumptions can limit how open we are to difference.
Listen, learn and be willing to adapt. This is an ongoing, lifelong learning, not a ‘once-off’.
At the same time, maximise strengths and connections. Focus on people’s strengths and support the person and the conditions around them.
Things are complex, evolving and unique for everyone. So our responses need to connect with other responses, go deep to the underlying cause, and put the person or community first.
At the same time, let’s rebalance and redefine structures. Understand what’s informing decisions and the way we have set up institutions and processes. Do they prioritise all people and future generations?
If not, let’s adjust. We can address equity through the way we manage, make policies, and include diverse voices in decisions.
Acting in all 3 ways can create a deeper change. We can prevent practices, mindsets and structures that may perpetuate discrimination, disenfranchisement, dehumanisation and disadvantage.
Working together, with a deep understanding, with each of us acting on three levels in the decisions we make, we can transform inequity so fewer Queenslanders are left out, are doing without or are hindered.
For more information, and tools to help us make equity happen, head to our website.
We can all:
- recognise that inequity is unfair and avoidable
- understand that changing one underlying cause can impact many types of inequity
- reflect on how our ways of thinking and working might make things more unfair
- act together to break down the barriers to equity
- use new ways of taking connected action to make ripple effects throughout the system.
Beyond equitable treatment
Equity is about making sure everybody is valued and has what they need to thrive. Not everyone starts at the same place, which means we need different supports to meet different needs. This is a place to begin.
Often the pathway to equity means going further and removing the barrier. This means working to change practices and conditions that are unfair, and may hinder some people more than others.
health and wellbeing queensland
We collaborated with community for our definition of equity
Equity exists when social conditions enable communities, families and individuals to flourish. Working towards equity begins with acknowledging that current and historical social norms, and processes of power and decision making generated privilege and disparities. Achieving equity requires society working collectively to assess and redress systemic disparities in power, resources, opportunities, and participation.
Addressing inequity means fairness and social justice are prioritised. It means people have their human rights protected and are not discriminated against. By enhancing fair treatment, sharing resources and giving everyone a fair go, opportunities open up for everyone to achieve their goals, regardless of their background.
When everyone gets the chance to do their best, our whole society benefits. Making sure things are fair, inclusive and sustainable creates a more balanced and stronger foundation for success. It leads to thriving communities, better access to what people need, and wellbeing.
Applying an equity lens helps us meet needs and improve lives today, while committing to a positive future. Improving fairness provides a strong foundation for all children to learn and grow, in turn building a better future for many more generations to enjoy.
Insights
A Queenslander shares their perspective on equity
“Equity means treating everyone fairly and justly, while understanding and addressing the unique needs and challenges that each person faces. It is more than just giving everyone the same things; it’s about giving people what they need to be successful. Equity is important to me because it helps create a society where everyone has the chance to succeed, no matter their background or situation. It makes sure that everyone can reach their full potential and helps build a more fair and peaceful world.
Equity needs to be addressed by making careful and focused efforts to meet the specific needs and challenges of different groups. This means creating rules and practices that give resources and opportunities to everyone in a fair way.”
– Karin Swift, Community Governance Group member
In memory of Phillip James Carswell OAM
Phil’s contributions to social justice and equity have left an indelible mark in this country, impacting countless individuals and organisations. Throughout his life, Phil’s passion, advocacy, and fearlessness made a profound difference, helping to advance equity in ways that will resonate for years to come. His commitment to the equity framework through his role in the Community Governance Group was unwavering, and his influence on this work will remain a guiding light. The depth of his knowledge, lived expertise and drive for meaningful change pushed all of us to think bigger and strive harder for a more just world. Phil’s legacy lives on, and his spirit will continue to inspire those of us who had the privilege of knowing him.