TRC Partners With Ability Enterprises for Local Jobs
Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) have recently awarded two waste facility operational services contracts to local not-for-profit organisation Ability Enterprises giving residents a second chance through employment.
Ability Enterprises provide employment opportunities for members of the community who are marginalised and face obstacles surrounding employment.
Since 2012, TRC has been working alongside the not-for-profit social enterprise employing local residents to manage the Region’s various waste facilities through provision of gatehouse and maintenance services across the Region.
Ability Enterprises are also about to embark on an exciting new chapter with the recent contract now including management of Council’s two major tip shops at the Greater Toowoomba and Kleinton Waste Management Facilities. Council’s Tip Shops have historically served approximately 30,000 customers each year and has successfully diverted 500 tonnes of waste from landfill.
Almost 500 local people have been given employment opportunities through Ability Enterprises, with a number of people securing work at the Council. This has significantly improved the Region’s local economy and has had a profound impact on resident’s lives.
Portfolio spokesperson for Waste Services Cr Melissa Taylor said the partnership was a fantastic way to support community members who are struggling to find meaningful employment.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see how this partnership with Ability Enterprises is creating real opportunities for people in our community. Meaningful employment provides a real sense of purpose and connection. Everyone deserves the chance to contribute and thrive, and this initiative is making a genuine difference in people’s lives,” said Cr Taylor.
Council also benefits from the partnership with Ability Enterprises as it creates diversification and inclusion within the workplace, outcomes which improve the organisation’s productivity and engagement.
“A diverse and inclusive workplace fosters innovation, enhances decision-making, and creates a more engaged workforce. At the tip shops, having a team from different backgrounds means a better understanding of customers’ needs and a more welcoming experience for everyone who visits,” said Cr Taylor.
CEO of Ability Enterprises Claire Torkington said the two waste facility operational services contracts meant members of the Toowoomba Region community can gain a range of skills and most importantly gain confidence through their employment.
Ms Torkington also said she was looking forward to continuing and expanding Ability Enterprises services to the Toowoomba Region and was grateful for the partnership with TRC.
“The Council’s commitment to social procurement is a great example of local government procuring services in a way that delivers benefits for residents in many ways,” said Ms Torkington.
Cr Taylor congratulated Ms Torkington on Ability Enterprises securing the two contracts and said she was excited to see the Social Enterprise continue to make a real difference in the community.
Photo caption: From the left, Ability Enterprises Board Member Joy Mingay, Cr Melissa Taylor and CEO of Ability Enterprises Claire Torkington at the Greater Toowoomba Waste Management Facility Tip Shop at Wellcamp.
https://www.tr.qld.gov.au/about-council/news-publications/media-releases/16487-trc-teaming-up-with-not-for-profit-ability-enterprises-giving-locals-a-chance