Commonwealth Bank has announced it will introduce a diversity clause into commercial partnership agreements going forward.

The announcement coincides with the Bingham Cup Sydney 2014, the biennial international gay rugby tournament which kicks-off in Sydney this week. Commonwealth Bank is a principal sponsor.

Matt Comyn, Group Executive Retail Banking Services, Commonwealth Bank, says the inclusion of the diversity clause is a natural progression for the Group.

“We have always partnered with organisations who share our passion for promoting diversity and inclusion. This is an important next step for us in establishing our ongoing commitment to working with our commercial partners to build more inclusive communities,” he said.

“We believe the business community can play an important role in creating a more inclusive environment for Australians of all genders, sexualities, races and ethnicities,” Mr Comyn said.

Andrew Purchas, Bingham Cup Sydney 2014 President, says more organisations should show their support for diversity.

“The Bingham Cup Sydney 2014 promotes the inclusion of sporting players and supporters with the ambition of eliminating homophobia from sport, so that your sexuality does not impact your enjoyment or willingness to participate,” he said.

“It is wonderful that the Commonwealth Bank will partner with organisations who share their commitment to diversity. This sends a strong message to other businesses, and we are hoping to see more organisations follow the Commonwealth Bank’s lead,” Mr Purchas added.

The Commonwealth Bank is a member of Pride in Diversity, Australia’s only not-for-profit workplace program designed to assist Australian employers with the inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) employees.

Commonwealth Bank has a proud history of promoting diversity and developing an inclusive workplace. The Group established an LGBTI community and ally network, Unity, in 2012 and supports a range of initiatives throughout the year to build a workplace where every employee - regardless of sexual orientation - can bring their whole selves to work every day.

About the Bingham Cup Sydney 2014

The Bingham Cup Sydney 2014 is an international rugby union tournament for LGBTI participants. In 2014, the tournament will be staged in Sydney from 24 – 31 August. For more information visit www.binghamcup.com