Indigenous Apprentices forge new careers at Centrelink
Queensland Media Release
Wednesday, 20 January 2010
6 Indigenous trainees are forging a new career at a Centrelink Call Centre in Tweed Heads after being selected for the Indigenous Apprenticeship Program.
Beau Bright, Mitchell Bird, Tresha Donnelly, Chihara Cora, Simon Chadburn and Samantha Nean beat more than 100 applicants to win the positions.
The program aims to provide employment and training opportunities for Indigenous people and increase the number of Indigenous employees in Centrelink’s call network.
As part of the apprenticeship, the group will undergo 12 months of on-the-job training to complete Certificate 3 in Customer Contact, in conjunction with New South Wales TAFE.
All 6 agree they’ve been given a unique opportunity to improve their career prospects.
"I’ve had other jobs but this one gives me the chance to grow and progress and have the career I’ve always wanted," Beau said. "I’d eventually like to be an Indigenous Support Officer and help others get a good start like we have."
As a mother of 2, Tresha says the traineeship gives her many opportunities and the ability to give something back to the community.
Samantha’s background included work in the local hospitality industry and while she enjoyed it, she realised it was time for a change when she saw the ad for the program.
"I love a challenge and it’s the career change I’ve always wanted. Now I can give something back to people and help them," she said.
The group is only into its 2nd week of the program and have started taking calls from Centrelink customers. Call Centre Manager Darren Sprott has been impressed with how the group has already formed a strong bond.
"They’ve all become good friends as well as colleagues and are always supporting one another," Darren said. "We were thrilled to see so much interest in the positions when they were advertised and such a strong field of applicants.
"This group is keen and focused on developing their careers within Centrelink and we are planning to provide development and exposure in a number of other Centrelink work environments."
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink Media Contact.