Annual Report 2016-2017 AnnualReport_2016-2017Web | Page 8

INTERRELATE . ORG . AU
supervisors with minimum qualifications and training .
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An organisational plan is in its third year of implementation , ensuring all existing staff meet the minimum qualifications of their job roles by 2018 .
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An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural audit tool has been constructed to set benchmarks against which our access strategy can be measured .
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Our Enterprise Agreement 2017-2020 was approved by the Fair Work Commission .
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Our Traineeship Program Manual and Internship & Vocational Placement Program Manual were developed . These structured work-experience programs enable prospective ( and current ) employees to work towards gaining experience and developing skills in a particular occupation , providing opportunities for regions to develop career pathways into Interrelate and enable partnerships with schools and higher-education institutions .
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Our Workforce Capability Framework was developed . It identifies the capabilities , and the level of capability , required of staff across the organisation to perform successfully in their roles . It also provides the foundation to facilitate a number of strategies identified in our Workforce Development Plan .
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Over 2016-17 , our managers ’ development program focused on supporting managers to :
−− develop a coaching culture .
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−− enhance overall conversational intelligence and leadership presence . apply the neuroscience of leadership to more effectively drive collaboration , engagement and performance in everyday conversations , and boost leadership in difficult conversations .
Cultivating strong relationships
Our innovative Reconciliation Action Plan was launched on August 16 , 2016 . In addition , to address all matters that involve some of our most vulnerable communities , our Culturally and Linguistically Diverse ( CALD ) staff reference group was established . In its first 12 months , the group completed its work plan , noting 10 key priority areas : »»
Support CALD initiatives , with a particular emphasis on the organisation ’ s Access Strategy .
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Identify service gaps and support the establishment of relationships with external CALD groups .
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Provide cultural advice and consultation support across operational and service development areas of the organisation .
»» Create a culturally aware workforce .
»» Enhance the engagement of new CALD staff .
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Provide cultural , collegial and professional support to all CALD staff members of Interrelate and those staff working closely with CALD communities .
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Lead by example in promoting understanding and respectful relationships between CALD individuals and other community members .
»» Provide guidance to the organisation on how to increase job satisfaction and professional development for CALD staff .
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Assist in translating research into practice across Interrelate ’ s service delivery with a focus on CALD families and communities .
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Support the undertaking of cultural audits .
We also recognised that corporate social responsibility is key for any organisation seeking long-term sustainability . Our focus over the past 12 months has been on sustainability , corporate citizenship and travel reduction . In 2016 we joined CitySwitch , Australia ’ s flagship sustainability program for businesses , and we offset 16 tonnes of CO2-e at our Norwest Head Office , which has given us an above-average Indicative NABERS energy rating of 5.5 stars . We were excited to support a student placement at our Dubbo office as part of the collaboration between CitySwitch and Macquarie University ’ s award-winning PACE ( Professional and Community Engagement ) program . Based on the principle of reciprocity , it allows students to contribute to the partner organisation and the community it serves while gaining valuable industry experience and skills .
This high level of success is only possible through the work and dedication of our very skilled staff , who are attentive to clients and great custodians of the wonderful 90-year legacy we nurture . In addition , I thank the Board for being brave in believing in the potential of Interrelate – without their support , the current growth of Interrelate in capacity and capability would not be possible . •
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