Sodexo, for the second year, celebrates the success of Indigenous VTEC hospitality trainee graduates

Senator the Hon. Nigel Scullion, Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs says: “Assisting Indigenous people into meaningful work is one of the Government’s highest priorities in Indigenous Affairs and I congratulate the graduates on successfully completing the Sodexo Hospitality Program 2015. Their successful graduation from the program shows what can be achieved when committed participants such as the graduates, the Australian Government, VTEC providers and employers increase employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians. Importantly, their achievements demonstrate that the VTEC model connects job seekers with guaranteed jobs in the fields they are training for. I wish the graduates all the best in their future careers.”

 

Wendy Dawson, General Manager Indigenous and Community Engagement, Australia, says: “Sodexo is delighted to continue as a host employer to the VTEC program, in a collaboration that shares our vision to provide quality learning and real opportunities within a culturally safe environment. Today is a great example of how the academic achievement of the VTEC graduates has translated to real employment. We know that our VTEC program is changing peoples’ lives and this is evidenced by the focus and determination shown every day by the group. We wish them all the best and welcome them into the Sodexo family.”

 

Rob Gordon, CEO of the WorkFocus Group and its specialist employment services arm, atWork Australia, says: “The VTEC model, which includes employment services, training and mentoring, secures sustainable employment for Indigenous jobseekers... not just a job, but a role that jobseekers are trained for, supported in, and which is expressly needed by committed employers like Sodexo. We feel enormously privileged to deliver this service on behalf of the Australian Government, and are particularly proud to be involved in this program which creates life-changing employment opportunities and breaks down training and workplace barriers for Indigenous jobseekers.”

 

Polytechnic West Managing Director Jill Jamieson says: “It is encouraging to see the positive results the VTEC program has brought about. It is a testament to both the hard work of the students and the strong network of employers and training providers the VTEC program affords. Polytechnic West is committed to working with our employer partners like Sodexo, to ensure Aboriginal employment outcomes continue to be met and exceeded.”