We’re always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to lend a helping hand in our communities. In regional NSW, there has been an increase in staff shortages across many industries in recent years. The Northern Co-operative Meat Company in Casino has taken on board keen, working visa holders from the Pacific Islands to fill roles and keep the business going.
Employees are required to drive themselves safely on our roads, transport their fellow workers and in some cases even drive the company buses. But these working visa holders do not hold long-term Australian driver’s licences – that’s where the ACE Driver Education Program comes in.
Over the last two years we have been supporting L Program training in Casino and Lismore, upskilling these workers within the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. This program has been a resounding success, with participants receiving learner licences, continuing onto provisional licences and eventually full licences.
ACE Community Programs Manager, Natalie reflects on the impact of this program, “We have had the pleasure of assisting the Northern Co-operative Meat Company maintain a sustainable workforce, keeping the business alive and productive. This also has an overall flow back into the community, with employees confident and safe out on the road for both work and social activities.”
