The successful development of Victoria’s Latrobe City Council’s Indigenous Employment Program is enhancing and increasing Council’s Indigenous employment. Under the program, Council aims to move to two per cent Indigenous employment of municipal staff over a three year term.
The program focuses on matching skills and interests in jobs, networking, educating prospective supervisors, and providing entry at different levels to a diverse range of employment.
“Latrobe’s model included a close consultative process with local representatives of the Koorie community, through the Briakaulong Advisory Committee, together with the appointment of an Indigenous Employment Officer,” said Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Richard Hancock. “Successful outcomes were achieved in the very first year, with the employment of ten Indigenous people. One has returned to full time studies while the other nine are employed in a diverse range of areas such as human resources, performing arts, events, administration, parks and gardens, sport and recreation, Koorie Liaison and aged and disability services.”
Council’s Employment Development Officer, Joanne Brunt, said that a key element of the program has been the strong support framework put in place.
“A cross cultural awareness training program has also encouraged a positive attitude to the program by supervisors and other staff throughout the organisation,” said Joanne Brunt.
The program has received wide recognition within Local Government and other industry bodies. Council has been advised that the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) will use the model as a case study for its Indigenous employment program. The program also received a certificate of recognition at the NAIDOC DEWR 2002 awards.
“It has had a positive impact on the Indigenous community as it has developed and delivered a mentoring process that has led to role models in the community,” Joanne Brunt said.
For further information, contact Joanne Brunt on 1300 367 700.
