News & Insights

Macpherson Kelley is thrilled to announce market-leading updates to its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies celebrating the firm’s inclusive values and supportive culture.

Macpherson Kelley’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion includes substantial updates to their Parental Leave policy offering up to 20 weeks paid parental leave for the primary carer and including superannuation contributions on both paid and unpaid leave.

National Managing Principal Lawyer Grant Guenther says that continuing superannuation contributions throughout parental leave is a step in the right direction when it comes to addressing the gender pay gap.

“We want to lead by example in this space. Our people need to know that they will not be expected to make professional sacrifices when they embark on the exciting journey of becoming a parent. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to support our staff through every stage of their life – professionally and personally,” said Grant Guenther.

The firm is also committing to a Fertility Leave policy to support staff and their partners who are undergoing fertility treatment options to grow their family and will be piloting a Public Holiday Swap Policy to allow employees to take time to celebrate holidays that are meaningful to them.

“We want to invest in our people and facilitate an environment where everyone can bring their best selves to work, which in turn will have a positive impact on talent attraction, retention and client service. All staff should feel as though they are supported and given a fair opportunity to have a successful career with the firm,” said Grant.

Macpherson Kelley is comprised of 60% female staff with at least a third of our equity holders and a third of our leadership roles held by women, but National Human Resources Manager Olivia Holmes says the journey is far from over.

“There is always more work to be done. Formalising our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion commitment ensures that we are proactively promoting an inclusive workplace where all employees feel supported, included and empowered. It’s no easy feat but this is a step in the right direction. We will have more initiatives under our DEI commitment and strive to continue to be at the forefront of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in our market and in our industry,” said Olivia Holmes.

With a history of embracing innovative People and Culture practices, Macpherson Kelley had already implemented a Flex+ program prior to the pandemic, allowing staff to work both from the office and at home. The new programs are a continuation of the firm’s flexible and inclusive approach to working.

“We want our workforce to reflect the socially and culturally diverse country we live in, and our policies have to keep up with that,” said Olivia Holmes.

“This commitment is our promise to staff that their job won’t get in the way of enjoying life’s most important milestones – whether it be starting a family or enjoying a cultural holiday with the people they love.”

The information contained in this article is general in nature and cannot be relied on as legal advice nor does it create an engagement. Please contact one of our lawyers listed above for advice about your specific situation.