Coles has introduced 10 days of paid leave for team members who undergo gender affirmation. 

Coles’ chief legal and safety officer, and chair of the Coles Pride Steering Committee, David Brewster said the retailer is committed to championing LGBTQI+ inclusion in the workplace.

“We know that we have at least 900 team members who identify as transgender or gender diverse. We need to have proper policy and education in this area so there is clear guidance around taking leave for this important transition in their life,” said Brewster.

The retailer has also partnered with Pride Cup Australia, a panel on LGBTI+ inclusion in sports, which will help ensure that LGBTQI+ athletes at all levels can play sports in a safe place in all communities around Australia.

Pride Cup Australia CEO James Lolicato said the alliance will help Pride Cup expand its reach to over 750 clubs annually across Australia by 2025.

“When I was growing up, homophobic comments were thrown around the field more than the ball was, I didn’t feel welcome or safe to be myself in sport. To now see Pride Cup games being held in so many sports across the country is incredible,” he said.

Last year, Woolworths introduced two weeks of paid leave to support team members on their gender affirmation journey.