New Indigenous work grads ready to get on the job

Twelve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are now on track for successful careers in mining after graduating today from the first stage of training in the Sisters in Mining Program.

Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Curtis Pitt said the Sisters in Mining Program was a partnership between Thiess (CIMIC Group’s global mining company), the state and federal governments and Juwarki/Bungoo Aboriginal Corporation.

“This program is an example of putting partnerships into action and the excellent outcomes that can be achieved when different sectors work together on a common cause,” Mr Pitt said.

“By each partner focusing on the area of expertise they bring to the table, it demonstrates a commitment to a way of working that, as we’re seeing today, is paying dividends for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders, and women in particular.”

“This program aims to deliver real and sustainable long-term employment opportunities and careers for Indigenous women in Queensland’s mining sector as well as lessons in important life-skills areas such as goal setting, negotiation, nutrition and money management.

“Candidates undertook a three week pre-employment training program as trainee haul truck operators, as well as an 18-month traineeship that will contribute towards a Certificate III in Surface Extraction Mine Operations.

“They will now have an opportunity for permanent employment across Thiess’s Queensland operations.

“So it’s more than a career path, the Sisters in Mining Program is an opportunity to prepare for a life of achievement which will immediately benefit these women and their families, as well as inspiring generations of women to follow in their footsteps.”

This is the first time in Central Queensland the federal and state governments have partnered with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander not-for-profit organisation and major industry to increase the economic participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

Contact:  0419 945 546