In March, the Yaka Dandjoo ‘Sustainable Employment’ program had another two cohorts graduate. These were the eighth and ninth groups to complete the course, with a total of 38 people graduating on the day, making this our largest number to date.

The six-week Yaka Dandjoo program is focused on building meaningful career pathways for unemployed and job-transitioning participants. This is accomplished through mentorships, training, and preparing students to work on major infrastructure projects in WA. The program is focused on providing opportunities for young people, women, people over 45 years old, and Aboriginal people.

With their start dates only a few weeks apart, it was planned that the two cohorts would graduate together as one group. This was organised to coincide with the peak in the labour demands for the next few months of the Bunbury Outer Ring Road (BORR) project.

The program participants, their families and friends, and some of our project team members and subcontractors celebrated together at a formal graduation ceremony.

Since the 38 participants graduated, there have been 28 employment opportunities identified in connection with the BORR project. These include apprenticeships in civil construction, roles as labourers and roller operators, in addition to finding employment with subcontractors.

The 38 Yaka Dandjoo program participants at their graduation event

A key focus for the project is continuing to support previous Yaka Dandjoo graduates through building sustainable employment opportunities in the region. This includes providing upskilling opportunities in new roles such as dump truck or water cart operations. Many of the program’s previous participants have now reached or are approaching 12 months employed in their new roles.

We recently caught up with Joanna, who completed the Yaka Dandjoo program with her mum Carlene, graduating in September 2022. At 26 years old, Joanna started the program with no previous employment history or career aspirations. Carlene agreed to attend the program so that Joanna had the confidence to do so. During the program, Carlene realised she also had a real opportunity for employment, and together they supported each other to finish the program.

Upon completion, Carlene was offered employment as a roller operator on the BORR project.

Joanna (left) with her mother Carlene

Shortly following graduation, inspired and motivated to keep achieving her goals, Joanna obtained her driver’s license. She is now completing an apprenticeship in civil construction and is working on the project.

Both Carlene and Joanna’s journeys have inspired other family members to engage in the Yaka Dandjoo program, and Joanna is now working with her brother and cousin.

“When I started the Yaka Dandjoo program, I had no idea I would end up where I am today. I have my first job working on the Bunbury Outer Ring Road, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I am so thankful I got given such a wonderful opportunity.” says Joanna.

If you or someone you know is interested in being involved in the Yaka Dandjoo program, please contact Main Roads on 138 138, or email enquiries@mainroads.wa.gov.au.