Water Corporation employer of choice for people with disability

Water Corporation's People and Capability staff with Water Minister Simone McGurk and Disability Services Minister Don Punch

• Water Corporation becomes the first Australian water utility accredited as a Disability Confident Recruiter
• Improved recruitment process helps prospective employees find and retain work
• Reflects the utility’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace
• A further four school-aged trainees with a disability to join Water Corporation this month

Water Corporation is making it easier for people with disability to join its workforce thanks to an improved recruitment process which has been recognised by the Australian Network on Disability.

The utility has become one of just 27 organisations nationally - and the first water service provider in Australia - to be accredited as a Disability Confident Recruiter.        

Announced by Water Minister Simone McGurk today, accreditation recognises Water Corporation's work to identify and remove common recruitment barriers for people with disability.

This includes improving language in job advertisements, providing more accessible locations for job interviews, and helping applicants access a support person or interpreter.

Water Corporation's commitment to improving employment outcomes for people with disability is stated in its Disability Access and Inclusion Plan, which supports a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Under the plan, Water Corporation works closely with disability employment providers to promote job opportunities, particularly through career entry and graduate programs.

One such initiative, undertaken with disability employment provider Edge, has seen three high school-aged students complete traineeships and go on to obtain permanent employment with the utility.

A further four school-aged trainees with disabilities will join the program in March.

More information on becoming a Disability Confident Recruiter is available at http://www.and.org.au

Comments attributed to Water Minister Simone McGurk:

"Applying for a job can be a difficult and sometimes stressful process, but hidden recruitment barriers make it even tougher for people with disability.

"By removing some of these barriers, Water Corporation is helping provide people with disability equal opportunity to find and enjoy a fulfilling career.

"It's fantastic to see government enterprises leading from the front in taking meaningful action to promote inclusion and diversity in the workplace.

"I'm also pleased by the success of Water Corporation's traineeship program for students with disabilities, that will soon provide another four young people with an opportunity to shape their future at WA's principal water provider."

Comments attributed to Disability Services Minister Don Punch:

"Employment is so much more than just income, it can help people become more independent and have more control over their lives, which is why we're committed to getting as many people into the workforce as possible.

"As WA's largest employer, it is important that the State Government leads by example in ensuring that people with disability have the same opportunities to participate in employment and live their best lives.

"Making it easier for Western Australians with a disability to obtain meaningful employment doesn't just support the individuals, it also benefits their families and the wider community, while helping create diverse and inclusive workplaces."

Water Minister's office - 6552 6600

Disability Services Minister's office - 6552 6900

Water Minister Simone McGurk with trainees turned permanent employees Talia Rees, Bailey Hanna, Callum Morosini, and Disability Services Minister Don Punch