When Workforce Australia, client, Thelma first met with the atWork Australia team in Narrogin, WA, she was ready to find a job that would last her to retirement.
As an Indigenous woman in her 60’s, living in the Great Southern Wheatbelt, she had several barriers to employment. Some of these included distance, health and limited opportunities being in a regional area.
However, she was motivated to do her best, and even moved in with her son for a while to start a Certificate III in Civil Construction near Perth in the suburb of Northam.
She then experienced deterioration in her health and was unable to complete the Certificate.
This didn’t stop Thelma, she continued to work with her Job Coach, Marie who connected her to our Indigenous Connections Mentor, Jennifer, for additional support.
Together, they worked with Thelma to identify her employment goals and even provided flexible servicing when needed.
Thelma expressed that she was interested in doing something active, like traffic control, due to the flexibility and her willingness to travel.
The team got to work and organised a white card and a police check in preparation for any future opportunities.
atWork Australia’s Employer Engagement Consultant, Theresa Francis as advised of a 12-week Indigenous Program with a local mining organisation doing traffic control and thought of Thelma.
They financially supported her with a fuel voucher to attend the interview which was an hour’s drive away from her home.
The atWork Australia team helped her complete her application, and she has since heard that she has been invited to start in the program in August.
In the meantime, Thelma will be supported by the atWork Australia team to complete her Traffic Control Course which is needed to start this new role.
“Thelma said she appreciated all the support provided by atWork Australia including understanding her culture, and being respectful of culture with a good understanding,” said Jennifer.
Every year, atWork Australia help thousands of clients like Thelma expand their skills and qualifications to help them gain the right job with the right employer. Call us today on 1300 080 856 or enquire online to find out how we can help you meet your career goals.