Australia's leading mature age jobs centre

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOCAL BUSINESSES HONOURED FOR ENDING WORKPLACE DISCRIMINATION

AUSTRALIA, 14  November 2008 :  Australia's leading careers centre and job board for mature age professionals Adage has won a 2008 Diversity@Work award in recognition of their commitment to employing mature age workers.

Adage was joint winner of the mature age category for small and medium businesses at a gala dinner attended by Sir Bob Geldof, World Vision Australia Chief Executive Reverend Tim Costello and Minister for Employment Participation Brendan O'Connor.

The 8th annual awards recognise employers who create a business that is inclusive for all its workers, clients and the broader community.

“Diversity is as critical to man as biodiversity is to nature... there is no option. Different systems of thought and behaviour add to the dynamism of any company.

“A country can’t grow without using all the cultures, all the talent, all the dynamism of the people of Australia - their abilities, and disabilities,” said Sir Bob Geldof.

Adage Director Jodi Stanton said Adage.com.au connected job seekers directly with organisations which value maturity and experience.

“The core objective of Adage is to enhance labour force participation of mature workers in Australia, improve the job search experience and educate employers about the changing workforce demography and business benefits of improved age balance in their organisations.

“Adage sought and was granted an exemption under Section 126 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977, to allow the advertisement of positions targeting mature age job seekers only, and to screen registrations for Adage on the basis of age (40+).

“The submission included evidence of age bias in the employment market and barriers to job search for mature job seekers. Adage was seen as a positive way to bridge the gap for mature workers seeking an ‘age positive’ employer, moving from full time to flexi work, or re-entering the workforce after an absence.”

Diversity@Work CEO Mark Heaysman says employers across Australia must do more to give mature age workers, people with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds a fair go and these awards recognised businesses which are making a real difference.

“It is disappointing that many businesses across Australia do not focus on giving older workers a chance. These awards show what is possible and should be an example for others.

“There’s no reason Australia shouldn’t be the world leader when it comes to workplace diversity. We have a wide population indigenous workers, mature-aged workers, people with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds, as well as return to work parents.

“These awards are a reminder to every organisation throughout the country to step up. I congratulate Adage on setting such a fine example,” says Heaysman.

“Businesses which celebrate and embrace diversity can make a real difference in the community,” Mr Heaysman added.

“This year we had 110 nominees and I thank and congratulate both the winners and the businesses which entered the awards for their ongoing efforts.”

Media enquiries:

For interviews with Mark Heaysman contact:

Melissa Devine: mdevine@ppr.com.au, 02 9818 0950

About the Diversity@Work
Diversity@Work is Australia's leading provider of consultancy services, resources and training for organisations engaged in strategic diversity management, workforce planning and cultural transformation.

Since 1994, it has advised government and business at the local, national and international level, and assisted organisations to move toward authentic diversity and social cohesion.

Diversity@Work assists Australian organisations to overcome barriers to inclusion and ensure that organisations are compliant with all relevant legislations. We play a fundamental role in the establishment and implementation of diversity initiatives.

Diversity@Work Awards
The Diversity@Work Awards recognise and reward the efforts of individuals, teams and organisations who encourage diversity and inclusion in their workplace. The Awards often assist organisation to benchmark their journey, however more importantly the Awards provide an opportunity to showcase their initiatives and learn from other organisations which have made the decision to increase their capacity to have a diverse and inclusive workplace or community.

Sir Bob Geldof
Sir Bob Geldof appears by arrangement with Saxton Speakers Bureau.