GETTING IT RIGHT Employing Indigenous. Employers

Transcription

1 GETTING IT RIGHT Employing Indigenous Australians: A Directory of Services and Programmes for Employers EDITION 6 OCTOBER 2007

2 Getting it Right is a GROW Sydney ACC initiative that aims to reduce economic disadvantage of Indigenous Australians by improving employment outcomes. It builds on the strong desire of both employers and Indigenous communities to advance the goals of mutual understanding through practical strategies that make a difference to people s lives. It is based on a shared belief that better results will be achieved if we can find more common ground between the culture and expectations of the workplace and the culture and aspirations of Indigenous Australians. Getting it Right includes a series of publications and events that aim to build the capacity of employers, Indigenous community organisations, Indigenous jobseekers, Job Network Members, Australian Apprenticeship Centres and Group Training Companies to improve Indigenous employment. The strategy was initiated and developed by the GROW Sydney ACC, the Area Consultative Committee for Sydney, primarily in partnership with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. The graphic design of Getting it Right products is based on the artwork of Aboriginal artist Leeanne Hunter. The main messages depicted by Leeanne are the goal of improved Indigenous employment outcomes and the strength of partnerships that are needed to achieve this goal.

3 GETTING IT RIGHT 3 CONTENTS Introduction 06 DIRECTORY Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (ALS) 09 Aboriginal Employment Strategies (AES) 09 Aboriginal Land CouncilS 10 Aboriginal Medical ServiceS (AMS) 11 Area Consultative Committee Network (ACC) 11 Australian Apprenticeship Access Programme (AAAP) 12 Australian Apprenticeship Centres (AAC) 12 Australian Job Search 13 Australian Workplace 13 Centrelink 14 Community Development Employment Program (CDEP) 14 llawarra Aboriginal Corporation (CDEP) 14 Deadly Vibe 15 Department of Education & Training NSW (DET) 15 Aboriginal Community Programmes Unit 15 > New Careers for Aboriginal People (NCAP) Program 16 > The Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Programme 16 Aboriginal Education & Training Directorate 17 > Schools 17 > TAFE 18 Department of Employment & Workplace Relations (DEWR) 19 Indigenous Employment Policy (IEP) 20 > Corporate Leaders for Indigenous Employment Program 20 > Indigenous Youth Employment Consultants 21 > National Indigenous Cadetship Project 21 > Structured Training & Employment Projects (STEP) 22 > Structured Training & Employment Projects Employment Related Services (STEP ERS) 23 > Wage Assistance for Indigenous Jobseekers 24 Getting it right

4 CONTENTS Department of Premier & Cabinet NSW Indigenous Employment Listing 24 Department of State & Regional Development NSW 25 Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council (STEP ERS) 25 GROW Sydney ACC (GROW Employment Council Inc) 26 Indigenous Jobs Market 26 Indigenous COORDINATION Centres (ICCS) 27 Indigenous Coordination Centre Sydney 27 Job Network 27 Koori Interagency Groups 28 Koori Mail Newspaper 29 Koori Radio (Gadigal Information Service) 29 Macquarie University WaraWara: The department of indigenous studies 30 National Indigenous Times 30 NSW Group Training Association 31 Office of Industrial Relations, NSW Department of commerce 31 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Unit 32 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Employment Information Kit 32 Redfern Aboriginal Corporation (STEP ERS) 32 University of NSW 33 Aboriginal Education Program 33 Careers & Employment 33 University of Sydney (Koori Centre) 34 University of Technology, Sydney Jumbunna Indigenous House of Learning 34 University of Western Sydney Aboriginal Education Centre (AEC) 35 Western Sydney Community Aboriginal Corporation (STEP ERS) 35 4 GETTING IT RIGHT

5 INTRODUCTION

6 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION PURPOSE OF THIS DIRECTORY This directory is designed to assist employers to better connect with services and programmes that can assist them in their Indigenous employment initiatives. While some of these services and programmes listed in this directory are available on a national or state basis they are predominately those available to Sydney employers. HOW WAS THIS DIRECTORY DEVELOPED? This directory is based on a project funded by the Department Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) managed by the GROW Sydney ACC and Arrilla Indigenous Consultants and Services. The objectives of the project were to: > Develop a directory of existing support structures that may assist private sector employers to employ and retain Indigenous people. > Through consultation with both employers of Indigenous peoples and with Indigenous employees themselves, identify key issues, obstacles, hints and ideas for greater success (including retention) in the employment of Indigenous peoples in the private sector. This directory is primarily based on input from Sydney employers and their Indigenous staff on the services and programmes that have assisted their Indigenous Employment initiatives. 6 GETTING IT RIGHT

7 GETTING IT RIGHT 7 Some other resources The two publications listed below are designed to assist employers in their Indigenous employment initiatives: Employing Indigenous Australians: A Guide for Employers is a workbook that provides employers with practical advice on how to convert their interest in Indigenous employment into successful outcomes both for their businesses and for Indigenous communities. STEP UP to Indigenous Staff Successfully increase the participation of Indigenous Australians in your Workforce provides advice on how to develop an Indigenous employment strategy. It features case studies from four major employers. Copies of these publications are on the GROW Sydney ACC website or by contacting GROW Sydney ACC on (02) Contact us... We welcome your questions, suggestions and feedback. Our contact details at the GROW Sydney ACC are: David Puckeridge CEO, GROW Sydney ACC Phone: (02) david.puckeridge@grow.org.au Getting it right

8 DIRECTORY

9 GETTING IT RIGHT 9 ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER LEGAL SERVICE (ALS) Mail: SRACLS Head Office, PO Box 2257 Strawberry Hills, Sydney, NSW 2012 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service aims to ensure that Indigenous Australians receive fair and equitable treatment within the criminal justice system and acts as an advocate on behalf of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Aboriginal Legal Service has offices throughout NSW in Dubbo, Lismore, Nowra, and Sydney and can market upcoming employment opportunities via existing networks. ALS will assist employers to advertise employment opportunities and understand legal concerns for Indigenous people. ABORIGINAL EMPLOYMENT STRATEGIES (AES) Mail: PO Box 184 Glebe, NSW 2037 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) glebe@aboriginales.com.au The AES is a service assisting Aboriginal people into long term and sustainable employment. They have offices across Sydney and regional areas. AES is able to assist employers in the sourcing and placing of suitably skilled Aboriginal clients. AES is about work and not welfare. They have a range of employment solutions that can be used to suit any recruitment process. Getting it right

10 DIRECTORY for employers ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCILS Mail: PO Box 1125, Parramatta, NSW 2124 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) are responsible for policy issues and community concerns within their region. Under the umbrella of the State NSW ALC, 120 LALCs around the State represent their members and maintain a close relationship with Aboriginal communities within that area. The NSW ALC provides the LALCs with a regular newsletter notifying branches of key issues, which can include employment opportunities. Due to their extensive links to the community, LALCs may assist employers by directing their queries and advising employers on suitable community contacts. LALCs within Sydney include: METROPOLITAN Phone: (02) Address: 245 Chalmers St, Redfern, NSW 2016 THARAWAL Phone: (02) Address: 220 West Parade, Couridjah, NSW 2571 GANDANGARA Phone: (02) Address: Level 1/103 Moore Street, Liverpool, NSW 2170 LA PEROUSE Phone: (02) Address: Cnr Elaroo Avenue & Yarra Bay Road, Phillip Bay, NSW 2036 DEERUBBIN Phone: (02) Address: 271 Beames Ave, Mt Druitt, NSW 2770 Employers seeking to communicate employment opportunities may contact their local LALC or contact the State Office, Manager of Human Resources (Phone: (02) ). 10 GETTING IT RIGHT

11 GETTING IT RIGHT 11 ABORIGINAL MEDICAL SERVICES (AMS) Mail: PO Box 1565, Strawberry Hills, Sydney, NSW 2012 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) The Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) deals with all issues related to Aboriginal Health and Medical research and have local offices in rural and urban areas throughout Australia. The Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council acts as the Peak Body for Aboriginal Medical Services and houses the State and Regional AMS office. The State and Regional AMS office works in partnership with the NSW Department of Health, and is responsible for dealing with workforce issues within the Aboriginal Medical Service. The State and Regional AMS Office can communicate information to all AMS statewide regarding employment opportunities. For further queries please contact the Coordinator, Workforce Issues. AREA CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE NETWORK (ACC) Address: Department of Transport and Regional Services Level 3, Public Trustee House, 4 Mort Street, Canberra, ACT 2601 Fax: (02) The national network of Area Consultative Committees (ACCs) provides an important link between the Federal Government and rural and metropolitan Australia. As volunteer community based organisations, ACCs are uniquely placed to respond to issues in their regions and provide a vital conduit to government on local, social and economic conditions. ACCs work in partnership with the Department of Transport and Regional Services to identify opportunities, priorities and development strategies for their regions. ACCs work with other key stakeholders to identify opportunities, set priorities and implement strategies to grow their regions. The Sydney ACC is the GROW Sydney ACC. Information on GROW can be found in this directory. The above website provides the location of ACCs around Australia. Getting it right

12 DIRECTORY for employers AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIP ACCESS PROGRAMME (AAAP) Phone: The Australian Apprenticeship Access Programme (AAAP) is a Commonwealth Government Initiative that helps jobseekers develop their skills and improve their chances of getting an Australian Apprenticeship or other employment. AAAP provides training for eligible jobseekers in the basic skills needed for a particular industry, coaching in general work skills help while looking for work and support while settling into the workplace. This programme has the potential to help employers meet some of their pre-employment training needs. It could be particularly relevant where there are groups of jobseekers that do not currently meet all of your selection criteria. The Department of Education, Science and Training have contracted organisations to deliver this programme. To find out more and to contact your local AAAP provider visit the above website or call the toll free number. AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIP CENTRES (AAC) Phone: Fax: Australian Apprenticeships provide an excellent mix of training and employment across a wide variety of occupations. Australian Apprenticeships Centre services include: > providing information on Australian Apprenticeships options to employers and other interested people > Marketing and promoting Australian Apprenticeships in the local area > Administering Commonwealth incentive payments to employers > Working with the State / Territory Training Authority to provide an integrated service > Establishing effective relationships with Commonwealth contracted Job Network Members, training providers, schools and other organisations. The above website provides a directory of Australian Apprenticeship Centre (AACs) locations, information on Australian Apprenticeships and subsidies that are available to employers. 12 GETTING IT RIGHT

13 GETTING IT RIGHT 13 AUSTRALIAN JOB SEARCH Phone: (Employer Hotline) Australian JobSearch (JobSearch) is Australia s largest employment website. Employers can advertise job vacancies on it or access 100,000 online résumés for free. JobSearch can also help employers find a Job Network Service and New Apprenticeships Centre anywhere in Australia. Employers can: > Advertise a job > Have vacancies automatically matched to suitable résumés. > Find Staff by searching through 100,000 online résumés. > Establish a Job Search page (update details, view or copy all previous Job Search jobs. > Advertise whether a job is for an indigenous jobseeker. AUSTRALIAN WORKPLACE ajs@dewr.gov.au The Australian Workplace website is a portal to information on employment, workplace relations, government assistance, jobs, careers, training and wages. It includes a link on the home page to information on Indigenous Employment Programs offered by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. It also provides convenient links to other government portals including the Indigenous Portal Getting it right

14 DIRECTORY for employers CENTRELINK Phone: or Centrelink is a government agency delivering a range of Commonwealth services to the Australian community. Indigenous Specialist Officers within Centrelink help Indigenous groups, communities and individuals to access government programs, providing them with equitable access to the full range of employment related Centrelink services. They liaise extensively with Indigenous communities and may assist employers identify suitable organisations to contact. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM (CDEP) Mail: CDEP Sydney Regional Office, GPO Box 4193, Sydney, NSW 2001 Phone: Fax: (02) CDEP is a form of work for the dole that encourages jobseekers to increase their skills and promote greater opportunity for real employment, particularly in mainstream sectors. Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) supports CDEP organisations and employers to place Indigenous applicants in long-term positions through the provision of placement (financial and other) incentives. CDEPs are mainly located in regional and rural locations. ILLAWARRA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION (CDEP) Mail: PO Box 5457, Wollongong, NSW 2500 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation is responsible for CDEP programs, Indigenous job training, employment program development, childcare services, community and cultural activities for Aboriginal clients in the Windang catchment area. Potential employers may contact the CDEP Specialist Employment Officer or Tertiary Education Officer. 14 GETTING IT RIGHT

15 GETTING IT RIGHT 15 DEADLY VIBE Address: Vibe Australia, 28 Burton Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 Phone: (02) or (free call) Fax: (02) Deadly Vibe is a national lifestyle magazine featuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, sport, entertainment and lifestyle. At present, 47,000 copies are printed and distributed nationally each month and read by Indigenous people of all ages. While it has a youth focus, they are a whole of community publication. Deadly Vibe advocates healthy lifestyles, Indigenous pride and a responsible, positive outlook on life in a no-nonsense format. The magazine is also committed to reinforcing the importance of completing a full secondary education, continuing with further education and/or training, and securing employment and training opportunities. Vibe Worker is a regular Deadly Vibe feature, promoting employment opportunities around Australia specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. You can choose to simply place a one-off advertisement, or use a combination of advertising and editorial to inform Indigenous people from every State and Territory about your positions vacant. For more information, including rate card and deadlines see contact details above. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION & TRAINING (DET) ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY PROGRAMS UNIT Address: NSW Department of Education & Training Level 13, 1 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) The Aboriginal Community Programs (ACP) unit of the NSW Department of Education and Training administers a range of funding programs that assist Aboriginal people to gain employment and establish small businesses. Getting it right

16 DIRECTORY for employers Programs managed by the Aboriginal Community Programs Unit include: NEW CAREERS FOR ABORIGINAL PEOPLE (NCAP) PROGRAM The program aims to assist Aboriginal people into employment or training which will enhance their prospects of permanent employment, targeting Aboriginal people who are unemployed, new school leavers, disadvantaged in the labour market such as Aboriginal youth at risk, Aboriginal youth in Juvenile Justice Centres and Aboriginal people with a disability. NCAP assists employers: > NCAP officers can refer appropriately qualified and experience Aboriginal jobseekers to fill vacancies. > NCAP officers can provide employers with knowledgeable links to local communities and organisations, as well as access to training services at the NSW Department of Education and Training. > NCAP officers monitor job placements to ensure that both you and your employee are happy with the outcome. For information on your local NCAP services visit the website: The ELSA DIXON ABORIGINAL EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM The program aims to encourage job opportunities and career advancement for Aboriginal people, with the aim of promoting diversity, innovation and service responsiveness in the NSW workforce. Subsidies exist for employers to: > encourage the permanent employment and professional mobility of Aboriginal people; > promote innovation in achieving vocational outcomes for Aboriginal people; and > enhance career prospects for Aboriginal people undertaking higher levels of education and training. To obtain a copy of the program guidelines and application forms, visit the website: For program queries, employers may contact the Senior Coordinator, Aboriginal Community Programs. 16 GETTING IT RIGHT

17 GETTING IT RIGHT 17 ABORIGINAL EDUCATION & TRAINING DIRECTORATE Mail: Locked Bag 53, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) The Aboriginal Education and Training Directorate (AETD) is located within the NSW Department of Education and Training and acts as a state-wide body responsible for education and access initiatives across NSW Schools and NSW TAFE Institutes. The AETD provides a strategic framework for policies and guidelines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education and training. The NSW Department of Education and Training AETD assists employers seeking to promote work experience opportunities, source suitable candidates and promote employment opportunities to Indigenous students. Employers may Contact the NSW Department of Education and Training Aboriginal Education and Training Directorate The Manager, Aboriginal Education and Training. SCHOOLS REGIONAL QUALITY TEACHING AND INDIGENOUS ENGAGEMENt / COMMUNITY LIAISON OFFICERS Port Jackson, Bondi, Sutherland, St George Consultant, Aboriginal Education Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Central Coast, Ryde, Hornsby Consultant, Aboriginal Education Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (Central Coast) Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Getting it right

18 DIRECTORY for employers Liverpool, Campsie, Campbelltown, Bankstown, Fairfield Consultant, Aboriginal Education Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (Campbelltown) Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Mount Druitt, Blacktown, Penrith, Parramatta Consultant, Aboriginal Education Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (Mount Druitt) Phone: (02) Fax: (02) TAFE SYDNEY ABORIGINAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Aboriginal Development Managers in TAFE can assist employers in a broad range of Indigenous training matters. They can also help disseminate information on job opportunities to students. They also have good links to the community. Southern Sydney Institute of TAFE Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Northern Sydney Institute of TAFE Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Illawarra Institute of Technology Phone: (02) Fax: (02) South Western Sydney Institute Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Western Sydney Institute Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Hunter Institute of Technology Phone: (02) Fax: (02) GETTING IT RIGHT

19 GETTING IT RIGHT 19 New England Institute of TAFE Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Sydney Institute Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Riverina Institute of TAFE Phone: (02) Fax: (02) North Coast Institute of TAFE Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Western Institute of TAFE Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Open Training & Education Network (OTEN) Phone: (02) Fax: (02) DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT & WORKPLACE RELATIONS (DEWR) or Mail: GPO Box 9879, Sydney, NSW 2001 Phone: (+61 2) Fax: (+61 2) As part of its portfolio responsibilities, the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) is responsible for the delivery of the Federal Government s Indigenous Employment Policy. The Indigenous Employment Branch promotes the use of a range of programs designed to provide assistance and support employers in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for Indigenous Australians. NSW Indigenous Employment Branch distributes current Indigenous employment and training opportunities to a wide range of organizations. To be included on the distribution list contact DEWR on nswieb@dewr.gov.au Getting it right

20 DIRECTORY for employers INDIGENOUS EMPLOYMENT POLICY (IEP) The Indigenous Employment Policy has been developed to generate more employment opportunities for Australia s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Components of the strategy are listed on the next two pages. Corporate Leaders for Indigenous Employment Program Mail: /organisation Corporate Leaders for Indigenous Employment Program GPO Box 9879, Canberra, ACT 2601 Phone: Fax: (02) corporateleaders@dewr.gov.au The Corporate Leaders for Indigenous Employment Program is an initiative of the Commonwealth Government to encourage more Australian companies to lead the way in creating viable, commercially based Indigenous employment opportunities. Companies sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations offering to employ Indigenous people and develop specific strategies suited to the needs of each company. A flexible package of funding is provided to committed organisations for strategies such as pre-employment training, mentoring, or cross-cultural training. The Commonwealth is seeking innovative private sector companies to become leaders in the corporate community use your business skills and join other Corporate Leaders for Indigenous Employment. Support is available to help your strategy succeed. 20 GETTING IT RIGHT

21 GETTING IT RIGHT 21 INDIGENOUS YOUTH EMPLOYMENT CONSULTANTS Phone: Indigenous Employment Programmes Branch, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (02) The Indigenous Youth Employment Consultants (IYEC) programme aims to enhance the employment, education and/or training outcomes for Indigenous Australian young people. The programme is aimed at Indigenous young people aged 15 to 19 years, both within and outside Job Network and Centrelink systems, who are disengaged from school; want to leave school and are considering entering the workforce; and intend continuing with their education and / or training before entering the workforce but would benefit from additional support to maintain participation. Indigenous Youth Employment Consultants offer employers contact with Indigenous youth. They are employed by selected Job Network Members. Locations of Indigenous Youth Consultants can be found through the above contact details. NATIONAL INDIGENOUS CADETSHIP PROJECT Mail: National Indigenous Cadetship Project, GPO Box 9879, Canberra, ACT 2601 Phone: Fax: (02) nicp@dewr.gov.au The National Indigenous Cadetship Project (NICP) aims at improving professional employment prospects for Indigenous Australians. NICP seeks to promote Indigenous undergraduates to gain professional qualifications necessary for various public and private sectors roles. Focusing upon the private sector, NICP assists employers in the recruitment of Indigenous undergraduates by offering cadetship placements, with a view to long term employment following their studies. To find an Indigenous cadet who is suitable for your organisation contact the National Indigenous Cadetship Team. Getting it right

22 DIRECTORY for employers STRUCTURED TRAINING & EMPLOYMENT PROJECTS (STEP) /organisation Mail: NSW Indigenous Employment Manager, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, GPO Box 9879, Sydney, NSW 2001 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Structured Training and Employment Projects (STEP) provide funding assistance for organisations offering employment opportunities to five or more Indigenous people. STEP offers a tailored package of assistance to meet your business needs and maximise lasting job opportunities for Indigenous jobseekers. Projects are not limited to any particular Industry or Region and both private and public sector employers participate. Funding is flexible and could include: > support to develop an Indigenous employment strategy for your organisation > pre-employment training that helps jobseeker transition to employment > wage assistance > cross cultural awareness training > mentoring support for participants > marketing and other initiatives to facilitate the supply of jobseekers. 22 GETTING IT RIGHT

23 GETTING IT RIGHT 23 STRUCTURED TRAINING & EMPLOYMENT PROJECTS EMPLOYMENT RELATED SERVICES (STEP ERS) STEP ERS are DEWR funded organisations that provide: > pre-employment support services that may include the provision of training and the development and implementation of recruitment strategies; > employment placement services to assist them place and retain Indigenous Australians in their workplaces; and > mentoring services to help them retain their Indigenous Australian employees The services aim to support Indigenous Australians achieve ongoing employment throughout Australia, particularly in the private sector. STEP ERS assist employers with the skills, knowledge and expertise necessary to continue to provide sustainable employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians in their organizations. There are currently three organisations that provide on-going STEP ERS services in the Sydney region, namely: > Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council > Redfern Aboriginal Corporation > Western Sydney Community Aboriginal Corporation. Contact contact the NSW Indigenous Employment Branch of DEWR for more information To find a full list of NSW STEP ERS providers refer to website below. StructuredTrainingandEmploymentProjectsEmploymentandRelatedServicesSTEPERSPanel.htm Mail: PO Box N818, Grosvenor Place, Sydney, NSW 1220 Getting it right

24 DIRECTORY for employers WAGE ASSISTANCE FOR INDIGENOUS JOBSEEKERS Mail: Wage Assistance & Indigenous Jobseekers Team GPO Box 9879, Canberra, ACT 2601 Phone: Fax: (02) Wage Assistance is an incentive to help eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander jobseekers obtain long-term jobs. The programme provides a subsidy of up to $4,400 over 26 weeks for a full-time job or $2,200 for a part-time job to employers who provide these jobseekers with on-going employment. People who are eligible for Wage Assistance can find themselves a job by self-canvassing or with the help of a Job Network member or other employment service provider. Employers can then apply for the subsidy as explained below. How can an employer apply for a Wage Assistance subsidy? To apply for Wage Assistance, contact the Indigenous Employment Line on and request an application form be faxed or mailed to you. You can also access an online application for Wage Assistance at You must apply for Wage Assistance within 28 days of the employee beginning in the job. Note: Apprenticeships and traineeships are also eligible for Wage Assistance. Funding which you receive under the Australian Apprenticeships Scheme can be combined with Wage Assistance. DEPARTMENT OF PREMIER & CABINET NSW INDIGENOUS EMPLOYMENT LISTING Address: Indigenous Employment Listing, NSW Premier s Department, Bligh House, L16 Bligh House, 4 6 Bligh St, Sydney, NSW 2000 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) The Department of Premier and Cabinet delivers a weekly employment listing to Indigenous employees across the NSW Public Service, Aboriginal organisations, Aboriginal community groups. The Department of Premier and Cabinet also provides Aboriginal Career Development opportunities, supporting and identifying training needs for Aboriginal Public Service employees. Employers seeking to communicate opportunities may contact the Policy Officer, Koori Network. 24 GETTING IT RIGHT

25 GETTING IT RIGHT 25 DEPARTMENT OF STATE & REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT NSW Mail: PO Box N818, Grosvenor Place, Sydney, NSW 1220 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) The Small Business Development Division at the Department of State and Regional Development has published a Directory of Aboriginal Business and Employment Programs. The Directory provides access to the range of New South Wales and Commonwealth Government Programs and services available to assist Aboriginal people currently involved in business or who are starting a business. It also includes programs designed for Australian companies interested in employing and/or forming partnerships with Aboriginal people. For an information booklet you may contact the Small Business Development Division. GANDANGARA LOCAL ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL (STEP ERS) Address: Unit 2 / 20 Enterprise Circuit, Prestons, NSW 2170 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Gandangara provide the following services: > pre-employment support services that may include the provision of training and the development and implementation of recruitment strategies; > employment placement services to assist them place and retain Indigenous Australians in their workplaces; and > mentoring services to employers them retain their Indigenous Australian employees Getting it right

26 DIRECTORY for employers GROW Sydney ACC (GROW Employment Council INC) Address: Suite 102, Level 1, 460 Church Street, North Parramatta, NSW 2151 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) GROW is Sydney s Area Consultative Committee. GROW Sydney ACC is involved in a range of regional development activities across Sydney with primary funding from the Australian Government. GROW Sydney ACC also has a role in promoting and supporting the implementation of the Australian Government s Indigenous Employment Policy. The Getting it Right Indigenous employment strategy has been developed and managed by GROW Sydney ACC. INDIGENOUS JOBS MARKET This annual Indigenous Jobs Market has proved to be an excellent way to connect Sydney s Indigenous people to jobs and training. It attracts Indigenous people from across Sydney who are looking for work. The Indigenous Jobs Market is also a great opportunity to network with other employers, Job Network Members, Universities and TAFEs. Employers can be involved in this Jobs Market by providing jobs, having a booth or by providing sponsorship. For more information on the Indigenous Jobs Market contact GROW Sydney ACC on (02) GETTING IT RIGHT

27 GETTING IT RIGHT 27 INDIGENOUS COORDINATION CENTRES (ICCs) Indigenous coordination Centre - SYDNEY Address: Sydney ICC, Level 9, 300 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Mail: Sydney ICC, PO Box K1176, Haymarket NSW 1240 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) ICCs work with Indigenous communities to identify their priorities and provide coordination across Government Agencies to deliver initiatives that respond to community priorities. ICCs are a good source of information about Indigenous community organisations and contacts. JOB NETWORK Phone: for jobseekers or for employers Job Network is a national network of private and community or ganisations dedicated to finding jobs for unemployed people, particularly the long-term unemployed. Over the last three years Job Network organisations placed 1 million Australians into work. Job Network members provide recruitment services to employers generally at no cost. Some members specialise in Indigenous recruitment. To learn more about local or Indigenous specialist Job Network members contact the Employer Hotline on Getting it right

28 DIRECTORY for employers KOORI INTERAGENCY GROUPS Koori Interagency groups are networks of local Indigenous service providers in the government and community sectors. They are an excellent means of tapping into the Koori Grapevine. BANKSTOWN KOORI INTERAGENCY Contact: Kerry Welsh Address: 36 / 38 Raymond Street, Bankstown NSW 2200 Phone: (02) kerry.welsh@swsahs.nsw.gov.au INNERCITY KOORI INTERAGENCY Contact: Mark Spinks (Centrelink) Phone: (02) Meetings: mark.spinks@centrelink.gov.au Alexandria Town Hall, Garden St, Alexandria, first Thursday of the month LA PEROUSE KOORI INTERAGENCY & SOUTHERN EASTERN SYDNEY INDIGENOUS INTERAGENCY Contact: Meeting: Lisa Murphy Lisa.x.Murphy@oft.commerce.nsw.gov.au First Thursday of each month SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY KOORI INTERAGENCY Contact: Emma Kelly (Centrelink) Mail: Locked Bag 20, Ingleburn NSW 2560 Phone: (02) Meetings: sws.koori.interagency@centrelink.gov.au Held at various locations on the second Thursday of the month 28 GETTING IT RIGHT

29 GETTING IT RIGHT 29 WESTERN SYDNEY KOORI INTERAGENCY Contact: Bob Leslie Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Meetings: Held at various locations on the last Wednesday of the month KOORI MAIL NEWSPAPER Website Mail: PO Box 117, Lismore NSW 2480 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Koori Mail newspaper is the peak print media for Indigenous Australians and focuses upon key issues for Indigenous Australians and those interested in Indigenous affairs. The Koori Mail provides advertising opportunities for employers seeking to communicate upcoming employment opportunities for Indigenous people. Employers may contact the Manager. KOORI RADIO (GADIGAL INFORMATION SERVICE) Mail: PO Box 966, Strawberry Hills, NSW 2012 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Koori Radio is part of the larger Gadigal Information Service that provides Indigenous news and music from around the world. Koori Radio can assist employers by posting employment opportunities via its newsletter to its members and associate members. Employers may also contact Koori Radio to advertise employment opportunities on their network. Employers may contact the General Manager. Getting it right

30 DIRECTORY for employers MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY WARAWARA: THE DEPARTMENT OF INDIGENOUS STUDIES Address: WARAWARA, Building W3A310, Department of Indigenous Studies Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109 Phone: (02) or Toll Free Fax: (02) Warawara Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Programs Unit is located within the Department of Indigenous Studies, Macquarie University. Warawara coordinates block release programs bringing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) students for courses within Macquarie University. Warawara assists these students with ABSTUDY, travel and accommodation. Clients of Warawara mainly consist of interstate and rural Aboriginal and TSI students. Warawara provides students with information on cadetship programs, scholarships and employment opportunities and will communicate upcoming employment opportunities to Indigenous students within the University. Potential employers may contact the Coordinator. NATIONAL INDIGENOUS TIMES Website Address: PO Box 696, Woden ACT 2606 Phone: Fax: The National Indigenous Times is a fortnightly publication targeted to Indigenous communities. Employers can advertise their vacancies in this publication and on the website. There is also potential for editorial on newsworthy events and stories. 30 GETTING IT RIGHT

31 GETTING IT RIGHT 31 NSW GROUP TRAINING ASSOCIATION Address: Pomeroy Street, Homebush, NSW 2140 Phone: (02) Group Training is the easiest way to take on apprentices and trainees. With Group Training, you get all the advantages of carefully selected apprentices and trainees, short or long term, without the hassle of paperwork or payroll. Any business can use Group Training to employ their apprentices and trainees because Group Training is active in just about every industry construction, financial services, manufacturing, retail, health automotive, and hospitality, to name just a few. Group Training Companies employ the apprentices and trainees and then place them with you for as long as you need them. They take care of the paperwork for contracts of training (indentures), wages, allowances, workers compensation, superannuation etc, while the host employer allows time off to attend any off-the-job training that may be required. Additionally Group Training is there right throughout the period of the apprenticeship and traineeship and make sure everything runs smoothly. This includes ensuring the apprentices and trainees gain all the skills required of their contract of training and ensuring satisfactory progress is being made toward completion. For more information contact the NSW Group Training Association through the above contact details. OFFICE OF INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS, NSW DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Contact: Manager Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Unit Address: PO Box 847, Darlinghurst, NSW 1300 Phone: Fax: (02) Getting it right

32 DIRECTORY for employers ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER UNIT Located in the NSW Department of Industrial Relations the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to understand their rights and obligations as employees, managers and committee members. The unit also provides information on: > rates of pay > employment conditions > leave entitlements > payslips and employment records > setting up workplace policies > managing employment issues Other Services: > Two Rivers, the Unit s quarterly newsletter > Information sessions and workshops ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION KIT The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Information Kit is a loose-leaf reference which provides employers with information about their obligations and rights in the workplace under NSW Industrial Relations Laws. Subscribers to the Kit receive up-to-date information as laws change. REDFERN ABORIGINAL CORPORATION (STEP ERS) Mail: PO Box 794, Strawberry Hills, NSW 2012 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) raccdep@bigpond.net.au Redfern Aboriginal Corporation provides the following services: > pre-employment support services that may include the provision of training and the development and implementation of recruitment strategies; > employment placement services to assist them place and retain Indigenous Australians in their workplaces; and > mentoring services to help employers retain their Indigenous Australian employees. 32 GETTING IT RIGHT

33 GETTING IT RIGHT 33 UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES ABORIGINAL EDUCATION PROGRAM Address: UNSW, 47 Botany Street, Randwick, NSW 2031 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) The Aboriginal Education Program (AEP) is part of the University of New South Wales. The AEP offers Indigenous students of the New South Wales University support services, including tutoring and assistance in obtaining work placement. The AEP also runs admission and preparatory programs across most faculties of the university for Indigenous people interested in tertiary study. The AEP can assist employers by marketing employment information to its students via newsletters and postings. Potential employers may contact the Student Liaison Officer. CAREERS & EMPLOYMENT Address: Careers and Employment, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Careers and Employment at the University of NSW offers career advice to all UNSW students and recent graduates. Careers and Employment places job advertisements onto their website and directly mails and s employment information to students. Careers and Employment can also directly target their services to particular students/faculties/disciplines in response to employer requirements. Programs undertaken by Careers and Employment include an ACCESS Program seeking to offer employment to students who have experienced disadvantage. Getting it right

34 DIRECTORY for employers UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY (KOORI CENTRE) Address: The Koori Centre, Old Teachers College A22, University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Phone: (02) or Toll Free Fax: (02) The Koori Centre provides and promotes culturally appropriate and effective teaching, research and support services for Indigenous Australians, and the community, at the University of Sydney. Toward the completion, and throughout their respective degrees, Indigenous students are assisted in making career choices and are advised of employment opportunities in the public and private sectors. Potential employers may contact the Director of the Koori Centre. UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, SYDNEY JUMBUNNA INDIGENOUS HOUSE OF LEARNING Mail: UTS, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007 Phone: (02) or Toll Free Fax: (02) Jumbunna Indigenous House of Learning offers support services to over 300 Indigenous students within the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS). Advising students on tutoring, housing and ABSTUDY, Jumbunna also provides students with information on cadetship programs, scholarships and tertiary education opportunities. Jumbunna s student support services are also complimented by research and academic programs. Potential employers may contact the Research and Consultancy Coordinator. 34 GETTING IT RIGHT

35 GETTING IT RIGHT 35 UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN SYDNEY ABORIGINAL EDUCATION CENTRE (AEC) Phone: (02) Address: Locked Bag 1797, Penrith South DC, NSW 1797 The University of Western Sydney s Aboriginal Education Centre is based at the Blacktown Campus of UWS with staffed outreach centres located at Penrith, Bankstown and Richmond campuses. The AEC is a culturally based knowledge organisation which promotes tertiary access and education for Aboriginal people and supports them in successful completion of chosen academic programs. It works with communities to assist entry to University and with the University to educate its staff and students in Aboriginal culture. The AEC will circulate information on job vacancies to the specific university schools that have Indigenous students who are studying in areas most relevant to the particular jobs. When they are aware of individual Indigenous students who could be suitable they will pass on information about the job. WESTERN SYDNEY COMMUNITY ABORIGINAL CORPORATION (STEP ERS) Mail: PO Box 177, Mount Druitt, NSW 2770 Phone: (02) Fax (02) rexgentles@hotmail.com Western Sydney Community Aboriginal Corporation provides the following services: > pre-employment support services that may include the provision of training and the development and implementation of recruitment strategies; > employment placement services to assist them place and retain Indigenous Australians in their workplaces; and > mentoring services to help employers retain their Indigenous Australian employees All rights reserved. Except as provided for under Australian copyright law, no part of this book may be reproduced or used for commercial purposes without permission in writing from the NSW State Office of the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR). Getting it right

36 We welcome your questions, suggestions and feedback. Our contact details at GROW Sydney ACC are: David Puckeridge CEO, GROW Sydney ACC Phone: (02)