You Deserve to Work Where You’re Respected
At Thanbarran Careers, we believe that every workplace should value who you are, not just what you do. That includes recognising the strength of your identity, community connections, and the cultural knowledge you carry.
So how do you know if a workplace is safe and respectful?
And how do you ask the right questions, without feeling like you have to explain yourself?
This guide is here to help.
Signs of a Culturally Respectful Employer
Not every organisation gets it right. But many are trying, and some are leading the way.
Look out for signs that show real commitment, not just talk.
- They have Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff in leadership and decision-making roles
- They offer cultural leave or flexible arrangements for community obligations
- They’ve developed a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) or Indigenous Employment Strategy and keep it visible and active, not just collecting dust
- They support Cultural Awareness, Capability and/or Safety training for all staff
- They’re open to listening and learning, not defensive when called out
Pro tip: Respect isn’t always written in policies. It’s shown in how people behave and how they respond when you need support.
Questions You Can Ask in an Interview
Asking the right questions helps you understand whether a workplace is safe, inclusive, and ready for you to bring your full self.
Here are some things you could ask:
“How does your team support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff?”
“Do you offer flexibility for cultural obligations or Sorry Business and Sad News?”
“What training or commitments does your organisation have around cultural safety?”
“What does your organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan involve?”
“Are there Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people in leadership or decision-making roles?”
“How many Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people do you have in your organisation?”
It’s okay to ask. Good employers will respect that you want to know. If they don’t handle the question well, answer vaguely, or avoid the question, that tells you something too.
Understanding Your Rights and Expectations
You have a right to feel safe, seen, and respected at work.
This includes:
- Protection from discrimination and racism, including subtle and indirect stuff
- The ability to speak up or raise concerns safely without it being used against you
- Support for your cultural responsibilities, including leave or flexibility
- Being considered for roles and promotions based on your strengths and potential
You shouldn’t have to hide parts of yourself to “fit in.” You should be supported to bring your full self to work, with pride.
What to Do If Something Doesn’t Feel Right
Sometimes, the red flags show up after you’ve started a job. If something feels off, trust your instincts.
Here's what you can do:
- Keep notes: If something feels disrespectful or unsafe, write down what happened, including dates, what was said, and who was there
- Reach out for support: Yarn with an Indigenous Employment Advisor, HR, a union rep, or a mentor you trust
- Know your options: You may be able to raise a concern formally, or seek advice outside the workplace
- Connect with community: Mob who've been there can often have the words, wisdom you need and can provide guidance and strength
And remember: it’s never too much to expect respect.
You deserve to be in a workplace that honours who you are, not one that makes you shrink yourself to survive.
Final Word
Whether you're applying for your first job or making a big move, you have every right to ask for respect, inclusion, and cultural safety.
At Thanbarran Careers, we’re here to back you every step of the way.
You’ve got this, and we’ve got you.