RAP case study – Aboriginal trainee program

The pilot program at InfraBuild’s Revesby mesh manufacturing site takes a holistic approach with trainees being interviewed when they commence to understand their strengths and interests then matching those to opportunities within the business, such as in administration, dispatch, machine operations and lab testing.

The program is driven by InfraBuild’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), which includes improving employment outcomes for First Nations people by better identifying employment opportunities and developing real strategies to ensure our workplace reflects the diversity of the communities in which we operate. 

At commencement, trainees are buddied and mentored onsite and provided with on-the-job training to complement any formal learning. The program also includes sessions on workplace health and safety, industry standards, InfraBuild operations, and communications skills. Everyone onsite also participates in conversations on cultural awareness and understanding the significance of cultural protocols.

Revesby Operations Manager, Shane Richards, said the pilot program was looking beyond recruiting individuals with experience or formal training.

“It’s great to recruit people with drive and determination as the foundation of the program is to identify people with a willingness to learn and a positive attitude towards work.”

As Australia’s largest vertically integrated manufacturer and supplier of steel long products and one of the largest metals recycling businesses in the country, the RAP also speaks to our mission of Building futures through sustainable steel – making futures possible for all our stakeholders, including our employees, community, and society.