The resources and energy sector’s most innovative, inclusive and people-focused businesses have been celebrated at the 2024 AREEA Industry Awards, showcasing excellence in workplace culture and employee opportunities.
The awards were announced at Gala Dinner events held in Brisbane on Tuesday, August 27, and Perth on Thursday, August 29.
The Australian Resources & Energy Employer Association (AREEA) Awards recognise outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations in the industry.
A panel of industry representatives selected winners from nominees in four main categories:
- Mental Health & Wellbeing Award: Sodexo
- Future Leader Award: Callan Hunt (Newmont Australia)
- Diversity & Inclusion Award: Thiess
- Workforce & Workplace Relations Innovation Award: Chevron
AREEA CEO Steve Knott AM emphasised the importance of these awards, stating that they reflect the industry’s commitment to productive and highly motivated workplaces.
He highlighted the transformative times facing the resources and energy sector, including technological shifts, global market volatility, and recent government policy changes.
Sodexo won the Mental Health & Wellbeing Award for its SodexoFit App and START (Safe, Trusting and Respectful Teams) program.
These initiatives have led to a 29 per cent increase in reports of psychosocial hazards, indicating improved awareness and reporting of unsafe practices.
Callan Hunt of Newmont Australia received the Future Leader Award for his work on the Indigenous Buddy Program at Newmont Cadia.
The program pairs Indigenous employees with new Indigenous hires, significantly enhancing workplace experiences and setting new standards for inclusivity.
Thiess secured the Diversity & Inclusion Award for its commitment to Indigenous employment.
The company employs 552 Indigenous people across 33 projects and offices in Australia, representing 7 per cent of its workforce.
Chevron Australia won the Workforce & Workplace Relations Innovation Award for its new headquarters, One The Esplanade (1TE).
The building features innovative designs to support work-life balance and cultural inclusivity, including a creche, multi-faith rooms, and quiet areas.
These awards highlight the resources and energy sector’s ongoing commitment to employee well-being, diversity, and workplace innovation, demonstrating the industry’s adaptability in the face of changing global and local challenges.
