UNITING COUNTRY SA
EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
NOMINATED FOR
Yorke & Mid-North, Far North and Eyre Peninsula
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How would you describe yourself or your work in one sentence?
We're Caring for Country People and welcome you exactly as you are.
Tell us a little about what you do
Uniting Country SA (UCSA) is a completely regional community services organisation committed to supporting people and communities across country South Australia to live with dignity, connection and choice. Working alongside individuals, families and local communities, we deliver inclusive, person‑centred services that respond to local needs and celebrate diversity in all its forms. We pride ourselves on creating safe, welcoming spaces where everyone is respected, heard and able to be their authentic self, regardless of identity, background or location. Grounded in regional communities and guided by values of inclusion, respect and social justice, UCSA strives to ensure that pride, belonging and opportunity are not limited by postcode.
What impact or achievement are you most proud of this year?
Uniting Country SA has demonstrated regional leadership in LGBTQIASB+ inclusion by embedding inclusive practice across the organisation and actively showing up in community. Our participation in the AWEI reflects a commitment to strengthening workplace inclusion, accountability and culture, while our visible presence and support of regional LGBTQIASB+ events reinforces that pride and belonging extend beyond metropolitan centres. By supporting and engaging with local communities, UCSA helps amplify regional LGBTQIASB+ voices, foster connection, and create safer, more affirming spaces across country South Australia helping to ensure inclusion is lived, visible and locally led.
Why does your work matter to the community?
In regional and rural communities, inclusion is not optional, it is critical to health, safety and wellbeing. Pride Foundation Australia’s Rural Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ People report highlights that LGBTQIA+ people living outside metropolitan areas experience higher levels of isolation, minority stress and barriers to inclusive services than their urban counterparts, with limited visibility and affirming support contributing to poorer wellbeing outcomes. By embedding inclusive practice and maintaining a visible, values‑led presence in regional communities, Uniting Country SA helps address these gaps locally. Our work builds connection, reduces isolation and sends a clear message that LGBTQIASB+ people belong in every community. This visible, community‑based approach plays an important role in shifting attitudes, strengthening understanding and fostering safer, more inclusive regional South Australia.
What would you like voters to know when voting for you?
A vote for Uniting Country SA is a vote for Pride that reaches beyond the city limits. We’re proud to be recognised as Employer of the Year nominees in the 2026 South Australian Pride Awards, and we’re committed to making regional communities inclusive by leading LGBTQIASB+ inclusion in regional SA through real action and by showing up for our communities beyond metro areas.