Costa Berries in Tasmania has been named a finalist in the Asuria’s Employer Awards for the Local Champion Award, for their work in providing opportunities for people who have experienced long-term unemployment.
These Awards celebrate employers who are doing the work to attract, engage and support a diverse workforce.
Tina Munn, Costa HR Business Partner, said 24 people who had previously been experiencing barriers to employment, had been hired over the summer harvest with a view to provide long-term career prospects.
“Our supervisors and managers have been very supportive and flexible around their needs, and we have been working closely with our providers,” Tina said.
This has included identifying training needs, such as Working at Heights, White Card and chemical handling, which are then supported by Asuria and other providers.
In addition to on-the-job support, applicants are also provided with additional assistance through the application process.
“Sometimes they just need a bit of extra care and extra polish to achieve all they can be. It doesn’t take too much effort to individualise our process here and there and that can make a big difference to someone with barriers,” Tina said.
“The important thing is we also have a good relationship with our providers to ensure we can maximise success.”
The program has so far proved successful with 24 out of 28 people who started continuing on with employment and gaining training along the way.
“To me, the greater measure of success will be employees that start and stay and flourish at Costa.”
The Annual Asuria Employer Awards will be held on March 5.