How we're creating jobs - and new careers - for First Nations peoples.
Two new apprentices, both young First Nations men, started work on our roads last year. These apprenticeships are an initiative created in partnership with a Dharug-led social enterprise, Muru Mittigar. Muru Mittigar works with businesses to create employment, training and other opportunities for First Nations people. Muru Mittigar provides culturally appropriate support for participants as they build financial independence and progress in their new careers.
Both young men will be working on the M5 West, doing landscaping and other works along with training as they work towards earning their qualifications. They were welcomed into the program with a Traditional Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Wayne Cornish, Muru Mittigar's Executive Officer
The initiative was started in 2022, with two young First Nations men taking up landscaping apprenticeships with Ventia, our NSW operations and maintenance provider. Today, both are studying towards their Certificate IIIs in Parks and Gardens while working (with Ventia) on the Hills M2 motorway.
Plus, Muru Mittigar has supported establishing a grounds maintenance team on our Westlink M7, creating ongoing employment for four more First Nations people.
By working with Muru Mittigar and Ventia, we are helping create meaningful outcomes for First Nations young people, and are delivering on our latest Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) - that includes our implementing a First Nations employment strategy.
This initiative was a finalist in the 2023 Social Procurement Game Changer Awards.
