Yarra City Council’s Staff Health & Wellbeing Program was formally recognised at the Australian Human Resource Institute (AHRI) 2012 awards.
Promoting excellence in HR, people management and business practices, the AHRI awards (which are known as the ‘Oscars’ for the HR industry) were judged by a world-class panel of international leaders in the industry. Yarra was a finalist for the Martin Seligman Award for ‘Health and Wellbeing’.
Whilst Yarra didn’t walk away with the top prize, a spokesperson for Council said it was an absolute honour to be listed as a finalist from a high number of
applicants that included large corporate organisations.
This recognition comes after the program had previously won the national Heart Foundation Award in 2010.
Yarra’s Employee Health & Wellbeing Program focuses on prevention, with the aim of supporting employees to improve their health awareness, establish a healthier workplace and participate in regular exercise.
“Our staff continue to be our greatest asset and investment in their wellbeing is paramount to the quality of service provision at Yarra City Council,” said CEO Vijaya Vaidyanath.
The program includes fresh fruit delivery, workplace health checks, and access to Quit and Weight Watchers programs. The activities, offered at no or minimal cost, are arranged by Council’s Health and Wellbeing Committee, which is comprised of staff from all areas of Council.
The Committee is made up of staff representatives who are enthusiastic, motivated, hold strong leadership skills and have an interest in health. They are supported by staff from Human Resources, who are also on the Committee, and by senior management.
“Yarra City Council prides itself on putting people first. Positive management decisions have enabled us to plan and implement sustainable changes that continue to improve the health and wellbeing of the workforce,” said Executive Manager Human Resources Frank Rog.
