A new Indigenous workforce mentoring program has been developed for disadvantaged Indigenous job seekers in the Northern Territory’s Barkly region.
The program, Pipeline to Success, aims to equip participants with mentoring and leadership skills so they can support other members of the community into part-time and full-time employment.
Through the Northern Gas Pipeline project, Jemena saw many local people participate in learning and development opportunities which ultimately enabled them to contribute to the construction of the $800 million gas pipeline. Jemena’s Managing Director Frank Tudor said the new initiative builds on this model.
“Our hope is that through this program we will contribute to the broader economy of the Barkly region, while also identifying and mentoring a talent pool which is potentially capable of working on the Northern Gas Pipeline in the future.”
Student mentor Becky Limerick with Claire Keen. Image courtesy of Jemena.
The program’s inaugural mentor, Becky Limerick of the Wakaya people has completed six months of training in which she learned about attendance, communication, teamwork and computer skills.
“We’re thrilled to hear Becky is already mentoring others and promoting the benefits of this course to her community.”
“Becky’s positive experience has paved the way for the program to expand and two more members of the local Indigenous community are now participating,” Mr Tudor said.
The Saltbush Social Enterprises was selected to deliver the program after Karen Sheldon Training, part of the Saltbush group, co-delivered Jemena’s Gas Operator Training Program as part of the delivery of the Northern Gas Pipeline.
“This latest initiative will enable local Indigenous people to develop employment skills and career opportunities through mentoring. The program will provide an environment in which local people can receive training and receive skills-based learning while respecting their culture,” said Karen.
