Impressive job outcomes for Palm Island locals

Palm Island, August 1 2003 - For Palm Islanders Coralie Roberts, William Akenson and Thomas Conway, becoming employed is not just about having a regular income, but about the reward of gaining job satisfaction, and a sense of giving back to a community where their families grew up.

As part of the Federal Government's Job Network, Jobfind Centres have helped 23 indigenous locals successfully gain job training, qualifications and full and part-time employment in only a few months in a $7.5 million contract for capital works and commercial development with the Australian Army.

"Everyone participating in the construction work is very happy and proud to be a part of the community project, and the fact that we've gained qualifications as a result of Jobfind's assistance means that we'll have more opportunities to secure work in the future", said job participant, William Akenson.

According to chief executive officer of Jobfind Mr Con Kittos, the results being achieved on the island have been astounding. As a result of Jobfind's consistent presence on the Island, participation rates for training and employment outcomes have tripled and the numbers are still growing.

"Through our help, 15 locals have gained Certificates in construction and four have completed a course in hospitality. One of our locals who secured a full-time job has already been promoted to become a foreman and another vision-impaired member has managed to find a job as well", said Mr Kittos.

Coralie Roberts, a participant, said "We've been helping to build better footpaths, community recreation areas and BBQ shelters so that families on Palm Island will have more facilities to use".

According to project manager for Palm Island Tracey Jackson, the success of Jobfind's program to help the community develop better job skills, has already seen a huge improvement in the community's self-esteem and inspired many others to do the same.

"One-and-a-half years of hard work has gone into achieving these results, but it is rewarding to see the difference it has made. The successful locals are showing by example to other members of the community that getting the skills and getting the job can be done", she said.

As a result of Jobfind's work, the Palm Island Aboriginal Council will be using Jobfind Centres for recruitment and employment services.

Contact information:
info@jobfindcentre.com.au