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New Deadly Employment Connections program empowers Indigenous participants
CVGT Employment successfully launched its first Deadly Employment Connections program for Indigenous participants in Mildura. This four-day program, held from Monday, 9 December to Thursday, 12 December 2024, is part of CVGT Employment’s Workforce Australia program, aimed at helping Indigenous participants achieve their personal, educational, and employment goals.
Connecting with community and culture
“20 Indigenous participants connected with community and culture, helping them to become ‘future ready and culturally strong’,” says Aunty Rhonda Penney, CVGT Employment’s First Nations Coordinator. Through hands-on workshops and activities, participants gained valuable skills and knowledge to confidently walk their future paths. One participant shared, “I learnt so much,” while another noted that the program “boosted my confidence.”
Participants also heard from local special guests, Mildura Police, Mallee District Aboriginal Services (MDAS), Anglicare and Indigenous Project Management (IPM).
Empowering Indigenous Australians
The Deadly Employment Connections program, set to be introduced across CVGT Employment Workforce Australia sites, aims to address unemployment rates among Indigenous Australians.
It provides life skills, empowering course content, and connects participants to culture, employers, and local Indigenous support.
Aunty Rhonda Penney
CVGT Employment First Nations Coordinator
One participant expressed their appreciation for learning “about all the help you can get from getting a job to after finding work.”
Engaging and interactive workshops
“Participants were engaged throughout the course, which was a testament to the course content,” says Tahleesha Beer, CVGT Employment’s Mildura Manager. “Participants actively contributed by bringing their own guest speakers, creating modules on topics they wanted to share, and brainstorming ideas for future workshops. They even formed their own group, ‘Deadly One’, which quickly attracted new participants, including families.”
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Cultural activities and employment opportunities
Painting emerged as a favourite activity, allowing participants to connect with their culture.
“This workshop has significantly strengthened our relationship with our Indigenous participants, providing a safe and welcoming space for engagement with our services,” says Tahleesha.
“Employment opportunities were a key focus, with some participants scheduling upskilling sessions for the following day. Letizia Training and Development will be conducting food handlers and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) training at our Mildura office to keep the momentum going for participants to connect to meaningful work.”
Celebratory conclusion and future plans
The workshop concluded with a celebratory BBQ, marking the end of a successful week. “We are incredibly proud of the participants who completed the workshop and are excited to announce that the next Mildura workshop is scheduled for the New Year. This event was a powerful reminder of our commitment to supporting Indigenous communities and fostering meaningful connections.”
Participant experiences
Participants shared their enthusiasm for the program, highlighting the “teamwork and atmosphere” and expressing that they “loved everything.” The structure of the workshop, “spread out over four days to give us plenty of time to understand everything,” was particularly appreciated. One participant noted, “Getting more knowledge out of learning and getting motivated” was a key benefit. When asked for improvements, participants suggested, “Hold more of them,” and one proudly stated, “Being the first mob to do this was great! I can’t see where it could be improved – awesome.”
Connect to CVGT Employment
If you would like to learn more about our Indigenous Employment Support and how we can support you to find meaningful work, contact us on 132 848 or visit cvgt.com.au