Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and Guidance

The Australasian Pharmaceutical Science Association (APSA) and the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists (ASCEPT), together with the organising committee, are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and actively value and respect the diversity of the global pharmacology and pharmaceutical science communities.

APSA and ASCEPT recognise that diversity and inclusivity are strengths that enrich scientific research, collaboration, innovation and knowledge sharing across the pharmacology, pharmaceutical science and toxicology communities.

To promote equity of opportunity for all members and participants, APSA, ASCEPT and the organising committee encourage committee members, contributors and participants to embrace a broad understanding of diversity and perspectives, including cultural and geographic differences, professional backgrounds, areas of expertise, gender, sexual orientation and career stage.

The principles of equity, diversity and inclusion will be actively considered in the development of the scientific and social aspects of the meeting program. APSA and ASCEPT are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming environment that values diverse perspectives and supports equitable participation.

The organising committee will implement the following measures to support these principles:

• Representative committees: The organising committee and its subcommittees will strive to be balanced and representative of the diverse global pharmacology and pharmaceutical science communities.
• Program review: The organising committee will actively review content and representation across the entire meeting program to ensure EDI goals and principles are upheld.
• Inclusive scientific program: Across all scientific sessions, including invited plenaries, keynote presentations, symposia and workshops, speaker representation will reflect the diversity of the relevant scientific communities. The committee will aim for gender balance, with no more than 60% of speakers identifying as any one gender.
• EDI monitoring and reporting: EDI metrics will be collected and reviewed throughout program development and the meeting, with relevant outcomes reported to inform ongoing improvements.
• EDI statements for submissions: All program submissions will be required to include an EDI statement outlining how equity, diversity and inclusion have been considered in the proposed content and/or participation.

Through these commitments, APSA and ASCEPT, alongside the organising committee, aim to deliver an inclusive and welcoming meeting that values diverse perspectives, promotes equitable opportunities and advances excellence across pharmacology, pharmaceutical science and toxicology.

For more details on ASCEPT’s EDI Policy, click here.