Culture
Everyone has a culture. It shapes how we see the world, others and ourselves.
Culture is a defining feature of a person's idenƟty, contribuƟng to how they see
themselves and the groups with which they idenƟfy
Visible and less visible aspect of culture
These aspects of culture, relaƟng to the world view of a parƟcular group of people, will provide us
with the most important informaƟon to help us understand a person's cultural needs or acƟons,
their aƫtudes and behaviours.
These aspects of culture:
• give meaning to life
• are the driving force behind behaviour and reacƟons.
A greater understanding of these influences will provide us with a greater understanding of the
individual, making our Ɵme at work easier, more enjoyable and more rewarding.
The key aspects of culture found below the surface are:
• social interacƟon
• beliefs
• aƫtudes
• values
• percepƟons.
These aspects are very closely intertwined and overlap. However, we will explore each aspect in
more detail by addressing them in turn.
Session 2:
. All staff must comply with these policies and procedures.
Anti-Discrimination Act
Racial Discrimination Act
Australian Human Rights Commission Act
The People of Australia - Australia's Multicultural Policy
National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS)Standards
Equal Opportunity Legislation
Multicultural Access and Equity Policy
National Mental Health Plan (Multicultural Mental Health Cultural Competency
Tools
2010)
These policies clarify the expected behavior of people in the organisation and
encourag
inclusiveness and acceptance.
You will leave the session with a greater understanding of:
Your own culture/biases and assumptions
the importance of ongoing reflection on your belifs and assumptions
Strategies you can use to eliminate bias and discrimination
