ACA to release Create Space Census Report & Action Plan online Thurs Jul 14, 10am-11:15am AEST

At 10:00am – 11:15am AEST on Thursday 14 July, Advertising Council Australia (ACA) and Kantar will reveal the findings of Australian advertising’s first ever diversity and inclusion census – the Create Space Census.

More than 2,600 professionals from across advertising, media and marketing contributed to the anonymous census in December 2021, providing a true picture of the demographics and experiences of the industry.

The survey reveals strengths, pinpoints gaps and highlights priorities for focused and immediate sector-wide action on DE&I by combining data on gender identity, social and ethnic backgrounds, mental health, disability, age and family status with experiences of inclusion at work.

Critically, the data has informed phase one of the Create Space Action Plan, which will also be revealed on July 14, outlining three initial areas for the industry to focus on to drive greater representation and inclusivity. Further actions will be released in coming months.

Says Hannah Sturrock, national head of engagement, ACA: “Create Space is more than a survey, it’s a permanent program to drive and amplify the industry’s DE&I initiatives, including partnerships and resources, all informed by foundational research that is a first for Australia’s advertising sector.

“We’re grateful to everyone who completed the census. Your voice has been heard, and the census results are just the start of a long-term, wide-ranging program of work to address inequality and under-representation in our industry.”

Alongside Sturrock, event speakers on July 14 include ACA CEO Tony Hale, ACA D&I Committee chair and WPP ANZ president Rose Herceg, ACA D&I Committee member and whiteGREY chief strategy officer Simon Wassef, and Kantar Australia senior director Kathryn Robinson.

Says Hale: “The Create Space Census has provided us with incredibly rich data on the state of industry, revealing areas where we are strong and areas where there are clear opportunities to improve inclusiveness going forward.

“Importantly, there are no short-lived initiatives or short-term solutions. Create Space is ACA’s long-term commitment to setting standards, providing leadership, listening to our people, and measuring the industry’s progress on DE&I every two years.

“The aim is to embed fair and diverse workplace opportunities that drive real change and create an industry where we all feel we belong, with equal opportunity to contribute and thrive.”

EVENT DETAILS:
Online event: Release of Create Space Report & Action Plan
10am-11:15am AEST, July 14 2022
More info and register here.