When Campbell Page Workforce Solutions Specialist Lidija De Koning first met Danielle Ellis, Danielle had been unemployed for 12 months.
After accessing support through Campbell Page’s Disability Employment Services program and talking through Danielle’s interests and career aspirations, Lidija was able to secure a work trial for Danielle as a kennel attendant with Lifetime Pets in Victoria’s Yarra Valley.
Things moved quickly for Danielle after the trial, offered a job almost immediately after impressing her new employers with a strong worth ethic and dedication to animals.
“Danielle is amazing – she just loves animals and is so dedicated to them. She has a really beautiful demeanour and her work ethic and passion for helping was really evident in the trial,” Ms De Koning said.
Danielle said based on her experience she’d recommend Campbell Page to any job seekers.
“I wouldn’t have got this job without support from Lidija and Campbell Page. I have continually been offered assistance and shown respect – they are so supportive,” she said.
“I will be working at Lifetime Pets ‘forever’ as I really love my position.”
Campbell Page CEO Paul Barbaro said Danielle’s journey was a motivating example of how Campbell Page is working to support clients to seize opportunities which align with their areas of passion whilst ensuring physical disability is no barrier to finding employment.
“A physical disability doesn’t have to define or limit your employment opportunities, and Danielle’s story demonstrates that with the right support and some thinking outside the box, great outcomes can be achieved,” Paul said.
“It also just shows how employing people with a disability can be very rewarding and beneficial for your business.”
For more information on how Campbell Page can assist, visit www.campbellpage.com.au or phone 1300 139 920.
For Campbell Page client Nathaniel, it took some time to find the right job alignment. But he’s now been able to find employment using his electronics skills after Campell Page’s Workforce Solutions team submitted a Job Access claim to APC Technology, a South Australian-based company that design, manufacture and support world leading technology solutions for businesses.
Nathaniel works to assemble fully sealed keyboards that are used in harsh environments and are designed to stop dust and moisture getting into the boards. He is happy working with a great team of people.
“It has allowed me to be more focused, doing something getting away from home, talking to fellow colleagues,” Nathaniel said.
“As I have been studying electronics at TAFESA, this is allowing me to put into practice my skills I have learned at TAFE and from other things I have done in my life.”
Campbell Page’s Workforce Solutions team helped Nathan secure employment after he spent a significant period searching himself without success.
“I went to Campbell Page as one of their offices was close to where I live, and therefore I didn’t need to catch any public transport, as I am unable to drive,” Nathaniel said.
“They have helped me look for employment (and I have been looking for work in the mainstream employment), they have helped me with tips on improving my job search and other information on gaining employment which includes job preparation, interview skills, etc.”
As Nathaniel is legally blind and requires a magnifier to perform his work daily, the Campell Page Workforce Solutions team collaborated with APC Technology and Job Access to successfully fulfill Nathaniel’s specific equipment needs – and he’s been busy on the product line ever since.
“I have not long ago received this magnifier – it is going to be useful in finding parts I require on the parts shelves, and making other aspects of my job easier,” he said.
Nathaniel’s employer is very happy with his work and Campbell Page look forward to an ongoing partnership with APC Technology.
“A physical disability doesn’t have to define or limit your employment opportunities, and Nathaniel is a perfect example that with a little help, employing people with a disability can be very rewarding and beneficial for your business,” Campbell Page CEO Paul Barbaro said.
“It’s something we see every day at Campbell Page, and stories like Nathaniel’s make me so proud of what our team and our clients can achieve together.”
For more information on how Campbell Page can assist, visit www.campbellpage.com.au or phone 1300 139 920.
Not-for-profit employment and community service provider Campbell Page hosted a premiere on Friday for documentary films made for the My Voice, My Journey First Nations Youth Leadership Program.
The program, funded by the NSW Government’s ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ Regional Youth Investment Program, empowers young First Nations people to build confidence and cultural identity while creating a platform for their voices to be heard.
Participants in the program showcased their first two documentaries as well as played key roles in hosting the event’s 200 plus attendees, which included the filmmakers’ friends and families, government representatives including Mayor Mathew Hatcher and Fiona Phillips MP, as well as philanthropic organisation representatives and supporters.
“The involvement of our young people throughout the evening reflects the value of the My Voice, My Journey Program in helping to reduce shame and build confidence through their culture and connection to Country,” My Voice, My Journey Program Founder and Manager, Todd Chatfield, said. “The fact that our young people were so involved in the evening and were not afraid to show who they are in front of a large crowd speaks volumes as to how far they have come. That confidence embodied by the young people flows through to all the community, and we are very proud of all our young people.”
Campbell Page and The VERTO Group remain deeply committed to empowering youth and fostering leadership skills in Indigenous communities. Hosting events such as this represents a continued dedication to providing platforms for the voices of young leaders to be heard and celebrated.
“We are grateful to have shared this remarkable evening and to have celebrated the achievements of inspiring young leaders,” Campbell Page CEO Gail O’Donnell said.
“The event showcased immense talent as well as the importance of creating platforms for young Indigenous leaders to share their voice. We are immensely proud of the fantastic work that Campbell Page does to support this vision.”
We are grateful to announce the success of the Winter Appeal organised by Blackshaw Coastal in support of Campbell Page’s Youth Homelessness programs. This National Homelessness Week 7-13 August 2023, we celebrate the immense impact made by their efforts in providing vital support to those in need during this winter season.
Thanks to the unwavering support from our community, the Winter Appeal has helped more than 150 individuals and 22 families by providing them with essential food and warm goods. These contributions have undoubtedly made a significant difference in their lives during this challenging time. These valuable donations helped to meet local people’s immediate needs, with 85% reaching recipients within the week.
As we observe National Homelessness Week, let’s also take a moment to reflect on some startling homelessness statistics in Australia. On any given night, 122,494 people experience homelessness, with one in seven being children under 12. Shockingly, almost one in four individuals experiencing homelessness are young people aged between 12 and 24, and one in five are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
Homelessness is not just about “rooflessness.” A mere 6.2% of people without homes sleep rough, while the majority of homelessness remains hidden in crisis accommodation, rooming houses, insecure housing, overcrowded dwellings, or couch surfing.
The demand for homelessness services remains pressing. In 2021-22, 272,700 people were supported by these services, but sadly, another 105,000 people were unable to receive help due to shortages of staff, accommodation, or other services. Every day, 300 people are turned away because the resources are overstretched.
Understanding the reasons behind homelessness is crucial in finding sustainable solutions. Over half of the people seeking homelessness services attribute housing or financial issues, such as unaffordable rents, as their primary reason for seeking help. Additionally, 28% cite family violence or other forms of abuse as the main cause, while other family relationship issues and other factors contribute to the remaining percentages.
To combat homelessness effectively, we must work together to provide those in need with three fundamental elements: adequate incomes, secure housing, and protection from violence and abuse. By addressing these critical needs, we can take substantial steps towards ending homelessness in our community.
We express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the Winter Appeal, and to Blackshaw Coastal for organising and running the Appeal, and we encourage all of you to continue supporting the cause throughout the year. Together, we can create a brighter future for those experiencing homelessness and pave the way for a more compassionate society.
Let’s stand united in our efforts to end homelessness.
Belgravia Apparel and Campbell Page have partnered up to provide sustainable jobs for not one, not two but seven Adelaide locals who live with a disability.
Too often, hardworking, and motivated people are overlooked because they live with a disability. There are 2.1 million Australians of working age with disability. Of these, just under half were employed (47.8%), compared with 80.3% of people without disability (source: Australian Network on Disability)
Our customers have been settling into their new roles and performing a range of tasks including quality control, using equipment such as heat transfer presses, packing orders, retail support and applying logos and personalisation’s for a range of Belgravia’s clients.
“You get to learn all aspects of the manufacturing industry” – Dani, Campbell Page Customer
Campbell Page customer Adrian has been enjoying a range of tasks in his new job, including creating logo for Belgravia Apparel.
Future job opportunities
Three of the seven recruits have also been given further training opportunities since starting work. They are now studying nationally recognized certificates in Supply Chain Management or Process Manufacturing.
“Being able to develop skills and support the long-term future of these colleagues is very rewarding for us” – Belgravia Apparel Supply Chain Manager, Stephen Ladley.
Along with learning new skills, they’re also enjoying all the perks that come with finding a job. Meeting new people, more financial independence, and building their confidence in the workplace thanks to a supportive and understanding employer.
“It feels like [working with] family. It’s a supportive environment.” – Adrian, Campbell Page Customer.
Creating recruitment solutions
The partnership has also eased recruitment frustrations and supported business growth for Belgravia Apparel, who were struggling to find high quality candidates. They were relying on referrals or advertising through online job boards to find employees that unfortunately, just weren’t the right fit.
L-R Stephen & Emma from Belgravia Apparel, with Campbell Page customers Sherilee, Tony & Adrian.
“There was a significant number of lost hours trying to resolve recruitment. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome from the partnership. By understanding our culture, our business operations and regularly checking in with us, our expectations have been exceeded”- Belgravia Apparel Supply Chain Manager, Stephen Ladley.
We’re thrilled to be working with Belgravia Apparel to create sustainable jobs for local people as well as providing ongoing training and support to our Campbell Page customers.
Whether you’re living with a disability and looking for work, or are looking to hire staff for your business, Campbell Page can help. We don’t just team up with you, we get in your corner and find the solution that’s right for you.
GET IN TOUCH
Send us a message or call our friendly team on 1300 139 920 to get started.
A project delivered in partnership with Local Land Services (LLS), Coastwatchers and EcoCrews™ is helping to restore habitat for native animals including the Great Glider, which is listed as a threatened species, with the creation of wildlife corridors.
Over 3,500 natives have been planted across 1 kilometre of land connecting the wetlands of Coila Lake and the coastal woodlands creating the corridor. As the plants grow, they serve as travelling avenues for wildlife, providing important sources of food, and restoring connectivity between natural habitats, which increases the survival of populations in fragmented areas.
Greater Gliders are listed as a threatened species. Image Credit Josh Bowell, WWF Australia
“As coastal development increases there is a greater need to extend wildlife habitat, particularly in the Bingi-Congo area where there is a listed threatened species population of the Greater Glider. To future proof such species to withstand the impacts of climate change we need to extend their habitat”. Sonia Bazzacco – Senior Land Services Officer, South East Local Land Services.
CREATING THE CORRIDORS
Local landowner, Tess Schwarz also noted the importance of enhancing biodiversity in the region. “As a landholder I think we have a responsibility to think about how we can improve biodiversity and wildlife habitat not only on your own property but also linking remnant vegetation across the landscape.”
EcoCrews and local land Services working together to plant 3,500 native plants across 1km of land.
The corridors have been established over several months with planting performed by EcoCrews, a social enterprise of Campbell Page who provide jobs to locals supported by accredited training while completing much needed environmental projects. The most recent and final stage of the project saw 760 natives planted in 4 days.
“We’re thrilled to be involved in such important projects. We’ve covered a large area and it’s very exciting for our Crew members to know that the work we’re doing today will benefit the local region and native fauna for years to come”. Mark Green- Regional Manager EcoCrews.
The Coastwatchers contribution to this project is through a Great Eastern Ranges (GER) grant funded by World Wide Fund for Nature-Australia (WWF).
To find out more, contact Sonia Bazzacco – Senior Land Services Officer, South East Local Land Services on 0429 998 585.
If you’d like to find out more about joining an EcoCrew, becoming a future project host or are interested in working together, get in touch!
Our social enterprise EcoCrews™ has already hit the half-way mark on the NSW South Coast. Time flies when you’re making a difference in your local community! Since launching in December 2021, the crews have been working hard completing a wide range of different environmental activities, learning a bunch of new skills, and visiting a variety of beautiful sites across the region.
Just another day at the office for our EcoCrews on the NSW South Coast
We’re proud to say that so far our crews have exceeded all of our environmental targets including activities such as like planting 3,250 seedlings to revegetate a wildlife corridor in Coila, NSW, supporting koala habitat restoration whilst working withWorld Wildlife Fund Australia.
Some of the impacts of EcoCrews so far
Our Stepping Stone Farm Crew have also achieved competency across the curriculum, covering 63 different competencies from Key Learning Areas such as WHS, Organic Farming Principles, Irrigation and Harvesting and Storage.
FERTILISING FUTURES
Since completion of the EcoCrews program, our round one recruits have moved have gone from strength to strength with:
50% have moved onto further work, including one crew member who has been promoted to EcoCrews Team Supervisor
9% of participants have moved into full-time study
41% are continuing to complete their Certificate II in Conversation and Ecosystem Management
We’re incredibly proud of the work achieved to date by our EcoCrews and can’t wait to see what our next round of recruits will do. EcoCrews was launched as a result of the devastating 2019-2020 black summer bushfires. We’re rehabilitating bushfire impacted areas while creating local jobs for local people to help them, the community, and environment thrive.
If you’d like to find out more about joining an EcoCrew, becoming a future project host or are interested in working together, get in touch!
Caroline Odgers from not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT was in Mogo NSW today distributing Christmas presents to charity partner Campbell Page Mogo Aboriginal Preschool. GIVIT assisted the preschool during the Black Summer Bushfires and is now assisting with donations for families who are suffering from financial hardship as a result of the pandemic.
Caroline used donated funds from the public via the GIVIT platform to purchase Christmas presents locally in Mogo before presenting them to Janine Hutton, Program Manager Indigenous, Youth & Family Services at Campbell Page.
GIVIT distributing donations on the NSW South Coast to people impacted by COVID-19 and bushfires
GIVIT is facilitating donations of essential items for people that were impacted by the pandemic
Almost 2,000 requests for help have been registered across New South Wales
Many people are still recovering from the Black Summer Bushfires
Not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT is supporting vulnerable people across New South Wales South Coast impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic through a dedicated COVID-19 Relief Program.
With requests for help almost doubling since the beginning of the pandemic, GIVIT is distributing essential items to vulnerable people across the state following a $2 million injection of funds from NRMA Insurance and RACV.
GIVIT partner Campbell Page said they have seen an increase in demand for their services over the past few months.
“Mogo, in Eurobodalla, was badly impacted by the bushfires in 2020,” said Janine Hutton, Program Manager Indigenous, Youth & Family Services at Campbell Page. “Hundreds of homes and many businesses burnt down. GIVIT assisted us at the time by providing essential donations for people to get back on their feet.”
“We’ve now got people who are still recovering from the Black Summer bushfires who have lost jobs because of the pandemic and are experiencing severe financial hardship. They’re struggling to pay bills and feed their families, and many of these people are still suffering from trauma following the fires.”
“We’re putting a call out for donations of food, school supplies, Christmas presents and clothing to help people in this region recover and move on.”
GIVIT spokesperson Caroline Odgers said many people are dealing with the compounding impacts of natural disasters, family and domestic violence, financial hardship and the profound effects of the pandemic.
“Large parts of this region were severely impacted by the Black Summer Bushfires, with so many people still struggling to recover,” said Caroline.
“GIVIT facilitated the donation of more than 200,000 essential items and more than $2 million to assist people in New South Wales in the recovery of this disaster.”
“In the first two weeks of our COVID-19 Relief Program we coordinated almost 10,000 donations across New South Wales, with almost 2,000 requests still outstanding.”
“Almost every facet of life has been impacted including businesses, schools, community sports clubs and services.”
“Our message is that help is available. GIVIT can respond to urgent requests for essential items very quickly to help people get through this challenging period. We’re a free, online service for charities, support organisations and local councils to access donations for their communities.”
Since the COVID-19 Relief program was launched in September, hundreds of services have already listed requests for support including domestic and family violence services and emergency food and housing shelters.
NRMA Insurance Executive General Manager Direct Claims, Luke Gallagher said, “So many NSW communities have experienced devastating natural disasters over the past two years, including floods, hail and fires, and as an insurer we’ve seen first-hand how difficult it can be for communities to recover from these events while also dealing with the lasting impacts of the pandemic.”
“As we continue to support our customers in their recovery, we’re proud to partner with GIVIT on the COVID-19 Relief Program to help communities across the state access the urgent, essential items they need as quickly as possible.”
100% of donated money received by GIVIT to support people in need are used to purchase essential items and services. We buy locally, wherever possible, to support local businesses and the economic recovery of affected communities.
Content warning: This article discusses gendered violence & domestic abuse.
Campbell Page is committed to creating a thriving community that’s free from domestic and family violence. As part of our continued commitment to gender equality, we’re pleased to announce that we have been awarded White Ribbon Australia workplace accreditation.
This accreditation, which has been completed over a number of years, shows that our commitment to gender equality and creating safe workplaces for everyone goes beyond words and has been assessed and endorsed by experts in the field. It reinforces the great work our teams are doing and it helps to strengthen our approach to creating a culture that is respectful, safe and of course, equal.
We’ve built a culture in our offices and within the communities we service that actively helps to prevent domestic violence. We have additional policies, procedures, and support systems for our staff and customers who may be experiencing domestic violence, or who need support to leave. We also deliver specialised community programs and initiatives for our customers that promote respectful relationships and empower women.
The work we do supporting people to thrive by getting a job connects us with many members of the community that are at risk of or experiencing family or domestic violence. To make sure our customers get the support they need to achieve the future they want, we partner up with a range of fantastic community organisations so that we can offer a supportive, holistic solution.
Campbell Page is proud to support White Ribbon Australia and is committed to preventing gendered violence and providing safe and supportive spaces for our employees and customers.
Our sites are abuse free zones. If you’re experiencing domestic violence, or need support to leave, we’re here to help. For more information on White Ribbon Australia visit www.whiteribbon.org.au
EcoCrews is an exciting new program which will offer quality pre-employment training creating 45 well- paying, eco-friendly jobs for young people whilst completing much needed bushfire recovery work through environmental EcoProjects.
In collaboration with the Eurobodalla andBega Valley Shire Councils, as well as the Stepping Stone Farmwe’ll be creating six EcoCrews over the coming year, who will undergo 6-months of paid training and employment to deliver vital land-based works.
Whilst on the program, EcoCrew Members will undertake accredited units in Conservation and Land Management, complemented by mentoring and supervision. We’ll also be adding value to EcoCrew Members’ experience through innovations such as our package of social enterprise support.
We’re excited to share more with you in the coming weeks and months.
Questions?
Let’s chat. Send us a message using the below form or call our friendly team on 1300 139 920.
