ABC values and workplace behaviour

ABC employees are expected to embody and model the foundational values of Integrity, Respect, Collegiality and Innovation. In addition to this, the ABC Principles set clear expectations about working at the ABC as individuals, as leaders and together across teams.

The ABC Principles are:

• We are ABC
• Straight Talking
• People Focused
• Accountable
• Open and Transparent

In early 2020, as a continued commitment to creating and supporting a positive culture, reflection on the ABC Principles was integrated into performance planning and appraisal processes for all employees. This ongoing reinforcement of the Principles ensures they will continue to contribute to the ABC being a great place to work.

The embedding of ABC values and standards of workplace behaviour over the reporting period was supported through an expansion of the training programs available via the ABC’s online learning and development system as well as induction.

Regular employee and leader communication and the sharing of information within and across teams was encouraged, and regular Leadership Team metropolitan and regional visits were undertaken to improve leadership visibility.

Throughout the year, ABC employees examined opportunities to operate as efficiently as possible, while taking responsibility to deliver results for the ABC and its audiences.

Employee engagement

The ABC's most recent Employee Engagement survey was completed in late 2019 and provided employees with an opportunity to provide feedback to the ABC on a wide variety of matters.

The survey assessed overall engagement, providing management with significant insight into successful working strategies and also information on challenges and opportunities for improvement. More than 3,000 staff completed the survey. The ABC’s employee engagement score for the year was 69%, compared with the Australian benchmark of 70%.

In 2019-20 the ABC launched its internal People Hub system, a staff service centre that included Onboarding, Learning and Performance & Goals modules. The system simplifies and automates people processes, while enhancing the learning and performance experiences of both employees and managers.

Another year on from the content teams restructure, ABC People & Culture engaged with a cross-divisional team to co-design ways of working aimed at improving clarity in roles and decision-making. The ABC Mentoring program attracted more than 200 applications in total over 2019-20, for mentors and mentees. Increased need for remote learning throughout the pandemic saw expanded content for leaders and teams, while the creation of a Wellness Hub also supported the physical and mental wellbeing and development of ABC staff.