Canning City Council in Western Australia has shown it can match it with the private sector when it comes to equitable workplace practices. Canning was one of two State winners in the Prime Minister’s Employers of the Year Awards for 1996.
The Awards, which attracted 358 nominations, are designed to demonstrate the achievements of people who have disabilities to fully partake in worthwhile productive employment alongside their able bodied colleagues. They also recognise the independent thinking and foresight of employers who do not see physical, psychiatric, intellectual or sensory disability as a barrier to a productive working life.
Canning won its award in Category B which is for enterprises employing over 100 people. Category A covers businesses employing less than 100 staff. At Canning, Disability Services Officer, Graeme Dargie, uses a wheelchair himself so he is well placed to understand the capabilities of people with disability.
With his assistance, the City of Canning has pioneered best practice examples in accessibility of services and facilities. Workplus Employment Services, a specialist employment agency, believes that Council has been very proactive in applying a positive approach to employing people with disabilities. Working with Graeme Dargie, the agency matches personnel to suitable work and training programs.
Council currently employs six people with disabilities who, like other staff, work without supervision and are integrated fully in the work environment. All are employed full time on award wages. The program is well received in the workplace and the community.
Senior Information Officer, Leanne Clayton, is one employee who is part of the City of Canning’s close knit workforce. She was employed by Council two years ago and is considered a valuable contributor.
“We at the City of Canning are particularly impressed with Leanne’s work commitment, and her attention to detail displays real dedication,” said Graeme Dargie.
In addition to its own practices, the City of Canning also encourages the local community to increase work opportunities for people with disabilities under the Community Inclusion Action Plan. Among other strategies, this Plan includes information for both employers and those with disabilities on available support services in the local community.
For further information contact Graeme Dargie, telephone (09) 231 0606.
