Join our host, Ben Dillon, Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital Project for Downer, in an inspiring conversation with Vanessa Hicks, Manager of Capability Development and Business Transformation for Downer Group. In the last episode of Season 4, episode 32, we delve into the transformative power of social procurement and its impact on building a more inclusive and resilient workforce in Greater Bendigo.

Discover how Downer Group has embraced social procurement to make job opportunities more accessible, particularly during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Vanessa shares her insights on creating inclusive workplaces, offering peer support programmes, and the significant role mentoring plays in improving retention rates.

Explore the success stories of employing disadvantaged individuals and the ripple effects of providing meaningful employment opportunities. Learn about the unique recruitment and onboarding strategies that led to a remarkable 97% retention rate among new hires, and the partnerships with local organisations that made it all possible.

This episode is a must-listen for business leaders and professionals looking to integrate social responsibility into their business practices. Gain practical advice on building capabilities around social procurement and partnering with local organisations to drive positive change in the community.

Don't miss this enlightening discussion on how businesses can leverage social procurement to foster a sustainable and inclusive economy in Greater Bendigo.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Join our host, Ben Dillon, Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital Project for Downer, as he embarks on an inspiring journey with Michael Robertson, Director at JL King & Co. & Simply Tasty, a beacon of social responsibility and innovation in Greater Bendigo. Discover how this iconic brand, crowned Business of the Year in 2024, has evolved from humble beginnings to a nationally recognised name in food service and manufacturing.

Michael shares the rich history of J.L. King & Co., a business that has been part of the Bendigo community since 1913. Learn about the transformative impact of social procurement, as Michael discusses the company’s commitment to partnering with local suppliers and fostering a multicultural and inclusive workforce. From employing individuals with disabilities to celebrating cultural diversity, J.L. King & Co. is a testament to the power of community-driven growth.

Explore the innovative strategies that have propelled J.L. King & Co. to success, including their focus on sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint. Hear about their cutting-edge facility, built with local tradespeople, which stands as one of the greenest in Australia for ready meals production.

This episode is a must-listen for business leaders and entrepreneurs seeking to integrate social responsibility into their business practices. Gain valuable insights on building strong supplier relationships, supporting local communities, and creating a workplace culture that champions diversity and inclusion.

Whether you're a business owner, professional, or simply passionate about supporting local enterprises, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration to drive positive change in your community.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Join our host, Ben Dillon, Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital Project for Downer, as he embarks on an enlightening journey into the world of social enterprises with Jennie Walker, a leading voice in the field.

Discover the incredible work being done at Pepper Green Farm, a social enterprise that supports people with disabilities by providing meaningful employment opportunities. Jennie shares her personal journey and the mission of Pepper Green Farm, highlighting the diverse range of services they offer, from vegetable growing to catering and grounds maintenance.

Learn about the concept of social enterprises, businesses that prioritise people and planet over profit, and how they differ from traditional not-for-profits. Jenny provides insights into the many social enterprises operating in the region and their positive impact on the community.

Explore practical strategies for businesses to engage with social enterprises and integrate social responsibility into their operations. Gain valuable advice on building capabilities around social procurement and creating inclusive workplaces that leverage the unique strengths of individuals.

This episode is a must-listen for any professionals seeking to enhance their social impact and contribute to a more resilient and inclusive economy.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

In this episode of Bendigo Business Stories, join our host, Ben Dillon, Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital Project for Downer, as he delves into the world of apprenticeships and traineeships with Jade Horton, Manager Apprenticeships and Traineeships at CVGT Employment. Discover the transformative potential of these pathways in fostering a skilled and inclusive workforce in Greater Bendigo.

Jade shares her personal journey from a hairdressing apprenticeship to becoming a leading voice in group training. Gain insights into the benefits of completing an apprenticeship or traineeship before university, including the development of both soft and technical skills, real-world experience, and financial advantages. Learn how group training organisations like CVGT Employment provide robust support to both apprentices and host businesses, ensuring higher completion rates and better outcomes.

Explore the ripple effect of social procurement and how it creates opportunities for individuals with barriers to employment, such as those with disabilities or from priority cohorts. Jade highlights successful collaborations with local businesses, including the City of Greater Bendigo, to support a diverse workforce.

This episode is a must-listen for business owners and leaders seeking to enhance their social impact and build a more inclusive workforce. Tune in to uncover practical strategies for integrating social responsibility into your business practices and driving positive change in the local economy.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Join our host, Ben Dillon, Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital Project for Downer, as he embarks on a mission to empower local businesses and support workforce development in Greater Bendigo. In this episode, Ben sits down with Kelli Hewton, Director of the Loddon Mallee Hub for the Head Start program with the Department of Education, to explore the transformative potential of school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.

Kelli shares her journey from completing a business traineeship to becoming a leading voice in school-based apprenticeships. Discover how the Head Start program is addressing skills gaps by supporting students in combining their senior secondary years with part-time employment, providing them with a head start in their chosen industries. Learn about the unique insights and experiences that make this program a success, including the wraparound support offered to students, and the role of Head Start coordinators in connecting students with employers.

Explore the impact of school-based apprenticeships and traineeships on both young people and businesses, and how they contribute to creating a sustainable and inclusive workforce. Hear inspiring stories of students who have benefited from the program and the partnerships and collaborations that have been instrumental in its success. Gain practical advice for businesses looking to engage with the Head Start program and make a meaningful impact through social procurement.

This episode is a must-listen for business leaders, HR professionals, and anyone interested in workforce development and youth employment. Tune in to uncover the potential of school-based apprenticeships and traineeships to drive positive change and create a more resilient and inclusive economy in Greater Bendigo.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Join our host, Ben Dillon from Downer, as he embarks on an enlightening journey to support workforce development in Greater Bendigo. In this episode, Ben sits down with Lisa Adams, a dynamic small business owner, to chat about her experience of managing diverse teams across multiple locations.

Lisa shares her inspiring journey of business growth, starting with Fox and Giraffe and expanding into the Gallery Cafe on View, Flying Fox and Giraffe at the Bendigo Airport, Fox and Giraffe at the Bendigo Jockey Club and a new venue - GiGi's wine bar and deli opening soon. Discover how Lisa's commitment to diversity and inclusion has created vibrant workplaces that foster innovation and community spirit.

Gain insights into Lisa's approach to social procurement, highlighting the importance of employing from all walks of life and promoting from within. Learn how Lisa collaborates with employment service providers like are-able to create opportunities for individuals with barriers to employment, and the remarkable outcomes achieved through perseverance and understanding.

Explore the ripple effect of local procurement as Lisa emphasises the importance of supporting Bendigo-based suppliers and businesses. Hear how her dedication to buying local not only sustains her own enterprises but also contributes to the broader community's economic resilience.

This episode is a must-listen for business owners and leaders seeking to enhance their social impact and build a more inclusive workforce. Tune in to uncover practical strategies for integrating social responsibility into your business practices and driving positive change in the local economy.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Join our host, Ben Dillon, Operations Manager at Bendigo Hospital project for Downer, as he embarks on an enlightening conversation with Damian Wells, Managing Director of Coliban Water. In this episode, they delve into the transformative potential of social procurement and its impact on local communities and businesses.

Discover how Coliban Water is leveraging its purchasing power to achieve broader community benefits beyond simple transactions. Damian shares insights into Coliban Water's commitment to social procurement, including their strategic shift from considering projects above $1 million to those above $50,000, amplifying the impact of customer money within the community.

Explore the role of social procurement in fostering inclusion, diversity, and economic opportunities for Aboriginal businesses and other underrepresented groups. Damian highlights the importance of investing in the future workforce through initiatives like the Passions and Pathways project, graduate engineering programs, and work-integrated learning.

Gain practical insights into how businesses, big or small, can engage in social procurement and the ripple effect it creates within the economy. Damian's passion for building a resilient and capable local workforce shines through as he shares Coliban Water's journey and future opportunities.

This episode is a must-listen for businesses seeking to enhance their social impact and integrate social responsibility into their strategies. Join us as we explore how social procurement can drive positive change and create a more inclusive and resilient workforce in Greater Bendigo.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Join our host, Ben Dillon, as he embarks on an enlightening journey to empower local businesses and support workforce development in Greater Bendigo. In this episode, Ben sits down with Martin Collins, Team Leader of North and West Victoria Industry Engagement with the Victorian Skills Authority, to delve into the transformative power of social procurement and its impact on communities.

Martin shares his expertise in social procurement, offering practical insights into how businesses can integrate social responsibility into their strategies. Discover the importance of thoughtful purchasing, the potential of social procurement to create win-win situations, and how it can drive positive change within the economy. Learn about the role of mentoring, apprenticeships, and traineeships in building a sustainable and inclusive workforce, and the significance of continuous learning in fostering economic growth.

Explore the concept of social enterprise and its potential to generate social good while operating in the open market. Martin highlights the Victorian Social Procurement Framework and its role in creating opportunities for social enterprises and local businesses. Gain valuable advice on how businesses can start making a meaningful impact today by focusing on their strengths and aligning their efforts with their values.

This episode is a must-listen for business leaders and HR professionals looking to enhance their social procurement capabilities and build a resilient workforce. Tune in to uncover the potential of social procurement to drive positive change and create a more inclusive economy for all.

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ben Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Every successful community has a strong and growing business community.

Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.

Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.