generation one – education and training the key

It was Brisbane’s turn last Wednesday to welcome mining billionaire Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest and Sir Bob Geldorf to join the Generation One campaign in trying to end indigenous disadvantage through employment.

The Fortescue Metals boss, who lived in Aboriginal boarding hostels as a boy in remote Western Australia, emphasised the jobs should not be offered out of charity, but in recognition of the value that can be added by indigenous workers.

"This isn't about charity. If you go out and employ a blackfella, fantastic. But if you feel charity in your heart when you do it you've lost it," he said.
"You employ Aboriginal people because they add value to your business, because they're as smart as paint and they can be trained like any of us can be."

Sir Bob, a tad worse for wear after indulging in some of Andrew’s wines the night before, was also passionate in his address and called on businesses to open their mind and hearts to the obvious benefits of inclusiveness.

Of paramount importance is the provision of, and access to, education and training. This was just as critical to indigenous youth in the major city centres as to those in the bush.

ACPET is proud to promote this program and calls upon all members to be engaged.
 

Sir Bob Geldorf with CHARLTON BROWN’s Neil Appo, Premier Anna Bligh and Nicola and Andrew ‘Twiggy’ Forrest at the Gen One Launch

Rhonda Appo and Tony Brown of DET –at the Gen One launch and presenting next week at the ACPET Over the Top Skilling Forum in the NT