The Federal Department of Human Services (DHS) celebrated its partnership with Canberra’s Koomarri JobMatch last week on the International Day of People with a Disability, recognising the work done to provide employment opportunities for people with disability.
General Manager at DHS, Hank Jongen said the Department’s working relationship with Koomarri had brought about a greater appreciation for the talent and experience people with disability bring to the workplace.
“Diversity brings new ideas, new perspectives and new approaches, making us stronger and ensuring we continue to be adaptable and responsive to the needs of the community,” Mr Jongen said.
“International Day of People with a Disability (3 December) was the perfect time to recognise the valuable contribution people with disability are making.”
Mr Jongen said DHS had signed a new contract with Koomarri, extending their working partnership for a further three years.
“For more than two decades the Department of Human Services has ensured employment opportunities for Canberrans with disability, through its partnership with Koomarri,” he said.
“We are committed to workforce inclusion and diversity”
Chief Executive of Koomarri, Nadine Stephen said the partnership with DHS highlighted the value people with a disability were delivering in the workplace.
“Everyone in our community has skills, talents, strengths and absolutely has the ability to contribute productively,” Ms Stephen said.
“Our employees regularly tell me how much they enjoy working at the Department and the benefits it gives them so this really is a win-win relationship.”
She said Koomarri employees worked alongside Departmental staff, with some involved in the program for more than 20 years.
“This contract recognises the contribution that people with a disability make and the meaningful relationships that are created.”
“I thank the Department for its leadership and commitment to developing a diverse workforce and we’re really looking forward to the next three years,” Ms Stephen said.
