ABC’s Managing Director, David Anderson was named CEO of the Year at the 2022 Australian LGBTQ Inclusion Awards in Sydney yesterday.

The ABC was also recognised as one of Australia’s top LGBTQ Inclusion employers for a second year running, being awarded Gold Employer status.

The Best External Media Campaign also went to the ABC for a second year with the ABC podcast series, Innies and Outies taking out the award. The series tells the LGBTQIA+ stories of those choosing to either come out or stay in, presented by ABCQueer’s Mon Schafter.

Managing Director, David Anderson said: “This is important recognition for the entire organisation and the work we have done to make sure the ABC is an inclusive and supportive employer.

“I am honoured to receive this award and accept it on behalf of all of my colleagues at the ABC.”

The Awards are based on the results of the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) and is Australia’s foremost celebration of LGBTQ workplace inclusion.

The ABC has a rich history of LGBTQIA+ storytelling. The ABC’s documentary program Chequerboard featured the first gay kiss on Australian television in 1972 and in 1994 the ABC was the first TV network to broadcast the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. The Mardi Gras returned to the ABC this year and next year the ABC has the broadcast rights for Sydney WorldPride, which will be held in February and March.

SBS was also recognised as a Gold Employer.