Today the CPSU Department of Defence Section Council, CPSU's national decision-making body for Defence, has written to the Secretary and the Chief of the Defence Force calling on them to support their LGBTIQ staff and ensure that they are not targeted by Minister Dutton.
The DEFGRAM that banned diversity morning teas, is in stark contradiction to the Defence Pathway to Change program, which aims to promote "a more inclusive, respectful and safe working environment, where all of our people can produce their best efforts.""
The Department has an obligation to ensure all staff are supported, and not targeted by the personal attitudes of Ministers.
That is why union members will be holding meetings over morning tea across the Department, during their work breaks, to ensure their LGBTIQ colleagues feel safe and supported.
Defence employees work hard every day for our nation, they deserve the respect of the Minister, not to be targeted for the purposes of a quick media grab.
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO CPSU DEPUTY NATIONAL PRESIDENT BROOKE MUSCAT:
"It is not enough for leadership to say they support their staff; they must back them in when Ministers try to play politics. CPSU members will be holding union meetings with morning teas to support their LGBTIQ colleagues. Diversity is a gift; it isn't a distraction."
"Since Minister Dutton forced the Department and military to put out this DEFGRAM, the CPSU has received numerous emails and calls from our members expressing hurt and anger at the decision.
People want to feel safe at work, and when you have a Minister targeting one group of people that cannot happen."
"The Minister should turn his mind to the real issues facing Australia's security and defences, not to his callous and divisive pet projects.
Attached letter to Mr Greg Moriarty and General Angus Campbell from CPSU Section Council.
