Employment Program Benefits Community

Real employment outcomes are being delivered for First Nations jobseekers across Kwinana, Peel, and the Upper South-West as a result of a partnership between the Waalitj Foundation and Alcoa Foundation.

Since launching the partnership in February, 61 First Nations jobseekers have been assisted, 14 of whom have secured full-time employment and 8 participants are being supported to obtain their driver’s licence.

The partnership allows Waalitj Foundation’s pre-employment program, Plan 2 Day 4 Tomorrow (P242), to be delivered in a targeted way in communities near where Alcoa operates its bauxite mines and alumina refineries.

P242 focuses on improving the employability of First Nations job seekers through developing skills and work readiness. It is delivered by First Nations employment mentors, who take a culturally appropriate approach to break down barriers to employment and provide individualised mentoring including supporting job seekers to gain their driver’s licence.

Alcoa Australia Human Resources and Employee Relations Director Matthew Gleeson said it was heartening to see the positive results the program was already delivering.

“Having a meaningful job and career is an important part of individual, family and community health and as such we are proud to partner with Waalitj Foundation to help reduce the employment gap between First Nations people and the broader community,” Mr Gleeson said.

Employment Program Manager Erin Rundle invited all First Nations jobseekers to take part in the Fit 4 Work sessions run in Kwinana, Pinjarra, and Waroona.

“Fit 4 Work sessions offer a welcoming environment for participants to hear from potential employers, learn about job vacancies and work with our highly skilled employment team,” Ms Rundle said.

“Our team is motivated to help each individual to find a job that they are interested in and suits their skill set. It’s not just about finding a job; it’s about reaching sustainable long-term employment.”

FIT 4 WORK Locations

KWINANA: Wednesday 10am-12pm Medina Aboriginal Community Centre (MACC), Kwinana

PINJARRA: Fortnightly Tuesday 10am-12pm Murray House, 14 James St Pinjarra WA 6208

WAROONA: Monthly Tuesday 1:30pm, Recreation Centre, 88 Hill Street Waroona 6215