Reconciliation
Action Plan
2014
Front Cover:
Images © Yothu Yindi
Foundation, Garma 2013
Photographer: Peter Eve
A message
from our ceo
I am pleased to present Sodexo’s third
Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), in
the form of a STRETCH RAP.
This RAP represents a journey that began
in 2010. It is a significant milestone in our
ten year commitment towards contributing
to sustainable change within Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander communities.
To achieve this, Sodexo must remain committed
to increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander employment and retention. Sodexo
will continue to support emerging and
established Indigenous businesses particularly
in the remote regions where we operate.
I am privileged to lead an organisation which
values positive and proactive community
engagement beyond its own commercial
gain - one that is focussed on ensuring the
sustainable growth and development of
Australian Indigenous communities.
The commitments made in this RAP will see
Sodexo grow not only as an organisation,
but as a key contributor to closing the gap
on Indigenous disadvantage in Australia.
Johnpaul Dimech
Chief Executive Officer
Sodexo Australia
1 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 2
Our vision for
reconciliation
OUR VISION
Sodexo’s vision is to improve the Quality of Life
for the people we serve and the communities
in which we operate. Our operational footprint
and the categories of services we deliver have
empowered us to contribute to the economic,
social and environmental development of the
communities.
OUR COMMITMENT
At Sodexo, we are three years into a ten-year
commitment to our host Aboriginal & Torres
Strait Islander communities. Our third (STRETCH)
RAP renews & reaffirms this commitment.
We continue to focus on improving the
Quality of Life for all, including Aboriginal &
Torres Strait Islanders, in all communities in
which we operate.
3 | Sodexo RAP 2014
OUR APPROACH TO RECONCILIATION
Employment, Engagement,
PROMOTING ECONOMIC INCLUSION
Retention
• Our Indigenous employment strategy is built on
the principles of equality and self-determination,
these underpin the United Nations Declaration
on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
We strive to be an employer of choice for
Indigenous Australians. Through our realistic and
measurable approach we will continue to close
the gap on Indigenous disadvantage, through
meaningful employment.
• We make a genuine investment in enhancing
employability and equal opportunity through
a suite of programs and special measures.
• We are proud and excited to be a part of the
generation for change. Sodexo in collaboration
with our Clients, can help close the gap between
Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians
through sustainable employment.
We have listened, learnt and we are planning our future
to promote economic inclusion. This will be achieved
through initiatives aligned to these four priorities:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Engagement, employment, retention;
Supplier Diversity;
Supporting Cultures; and
Building our cultural competency.
Through respectful listening and relationship
building, we are able to assist Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islanders to find employment close to
their communities. Implementation of our Stretch
RAP allows us to strengthen the number of our
Indigenous Australian workforce; including in higher
skilled and management positions.
Wherever Sodexo
operates in Australia,
we will work towards
improving the
Quality of Life of our
fellow Aboriginal
and Torres Strait
Islander Australians.
We will build individual capacity through training,
support and career pathways, and have a strong
focus on retention. We will continue to offer a range
of apprenticeships, traineeships, flexible rosters
and job-share arrangements wherever possible.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 4
Our vision for
reconciliation
Supplier Diversity
Supporting Cultures
Building Our Cultural Competency
Sodexo is committed to expand engagement
with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
suppliers. A key part of our Stretch RAP
program is our continued engagement and
active membership with SupplyNation, as our
strategic and trusted partner in this area.
Recognising and acknowledging the richness
and diversity of cultures in Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander communities is key in
developing lasting and respectful relationships.
Sodexo recognises that to achieve a culturally
secure environment for our Indigenous
workforce we must strengthen and empower
our management teams and support personnel
to share ownership of the Stretch RAP.
Sodexo’s global procurement policy and ‘Better
Tomorrow Plan’ mandates local community
development and supply. We believe that the
generation of indirect employment through
business enterprise alliances will lead to
sustainable wealth within local communities.
5 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo recognises the value in supporting cultural
events and activities which lead to better outcomes for
communities and the business. We are proud of our
ten year partnership with the Yothu Yindi Foundation
and the Garma Festival, and look forward to many
more years of supporting the Yolngu communities.
Our employees are aware of our RAP commitments
and internal engagement is focused on
encouraging staff members to be involved in
events. This includes supporting and participating
in National Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC Week
and the Journey to Recognition activities.
We are engaging in a new path; which will embed
our actions in the way we do business across all
functions and at all levels of the organisation. Our
champions now have clear accountabilities and
will act as change agents. Our Stretch RAP will
support the cultural shift we have put into motion.
We believe that
the generation of
indirect employment
through business
enterprise alliances
will lead to sustainable
wealth within local
communities.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 6
MEASURING OUR
PERFORMANCE
Our corporate responsibility
is a long term commitment.
The journey will continue to be
challenging and rewarding.
Our approach to measuring
performance will be transparent.
We will continuously monitor
our progress and recognise
the impact of our initiatives.
We are confident that our
people and values of Team
Spirit, Service Spirit and Spirit
of Progress, will continue
to make a difference.
7 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Our business
Building Our Cultural Competency
As the world leader in Quality of Life Services, every
day Sodexo delivers a unique array of integrated
services to 75 million consumers worldwide. From
catering services to facilities management, hospitality
services to concierge services, security services,
bio-cleaning or asset maintenance, innovating
with new services that improve the well-being of
individuals and the performance of organisations.
Sodexo’s RAP is built on the principles of equality and
self-determination which underpin the United Nations
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Our commitment to reconciliation is driven by
meaningful partnerships with Indigenous employees
and individuals for mutually beneficial outcomes.
Sodexo in Australia operates across six core sectors
and operates over 300 sites across Australia, many
of which are within or near regional and remote
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Across our diverse business portfolio we employ
3,380 staff of which 4.2% are of Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander descent.
The priority areas for our third (STRETCH) RAP
are: employment, engagement, retention;
supplier diversity; supporting cultures; and
building our cultural competency.
We aim to foster skills development; support and
promote existing Indigenous employees who have
demonstrated potential for excellence; encourage
natural resource stewardship; ensure safe and
healthy communities and sustainable outcomes.
We are committed to return wealth and value to
the communities of our Indigenous employees.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 8
MEASURING OUR
PERFORMANCE
Our Approach
The focus of our first two RAPs was on
establishing and nurturing relationships
with the Traditional Owners, Elders
and communities located near 12
Sodexo operations. We tried different
innovations using a strengths-based
approach and we became a listening
and responsive organisation.
We recognised the importance of listening,
of taking action and of keeping our word.
We witnessed progress & change in action
that comes from working with Aboriginal
& Torres Strait Islander communities.
Our Governance
We established an Indigenous Steering Committee
(ISC) in 2010 to develop our Indigenous
Engagement Strategy, identify priority areas
to focus and create our first Reconciliation
Action Plan (RAP). The ISC remains in place and
continues to develop the strategy, prioritise
and oversee the implementation of actions.
9 | Sodexo RAP 2014
SODEXO RAP
COMMITTEE
Our third RAP will
focus specifically on:
• Enhancing employability, equal
opportunity and retention through a suite
of programs and special measures;
• Delivering an increased spend in the Indigenous
supply sector through support from SupplyNation,
Sodexo’s strategic and trusted partner;
RAP COMMITTEE
RAP Priority
OWNERS
JohnPaul Dimech
Keith Weston
Chief Operating Officer Remote Sites
Owner: Employment, Engagement, Retention
NICK O’CALLAGHAN
Chief Operating Officer Sodexo Australia
Owner: Employment, Engagement, Retention
Neil Wittmann-Griggs
• Continuing support of Indigenous
cultural events and activities; and
Greg Lazzaro
• Committing to cultural competency,
grounded in the right of Indigenous people
to practice, develop and maintain their
culture, their way of being and lifestyle.
Mark Chalmers
David McGregor
RAP Champions
Chairperson
Chief Executive Officer Sodexo Australia
Martin Bin Rashid
JASON OAKLEY
Michael Dann
RAM DEVAGIRI
Colleen Condon
Scott Talbot
Wendy Dawson
Head of Supply Chain
Owner: Supplier Diversity
Director HSEQ, Risk & Technical Services
Owner: Supplier Diversity
Chief Financial Officer
Owner: Supporting Cultures
Director Transformation and Human Resources
Owner: Building Our Cultural Competency
Indigenous Business Development Manager
Indigenous Employment and Programs Specialist
Indigenous Mentor and Community Liaison
Director of Operations
Organisational Development Manager
National Environmental Manager
RAP Delivery Coordinator
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 10
Sonya Brady
Showcasing
Sodexo’s Aboriginal
and Torres Strait
Islander Employees their own stories
Service Attendant
Olympic Dam (BHP BILLITON) - SA
The Sodexo operations at BHP Billiton’s
Olympic Dam Village is proud to introduce
our longest serving Indigenous employee of
five years – Sonya Brady, here is her story.
My name is Sonya Brady and I am
to be a very approachable boss if I
an Adnyamathanha Kuyani woman
need anything. It is like a big family
from the Flinders ranges, born in
here and I enjoy life on camp.
Leigh Creek and later moved to Port
Augusta. I have two kids who have a
Kokatha cultural connection and one
works for Sodexo in Prominent Hill.
I first heard about Sodexo through a
Job Network provider in Port Augusta.
Following a very good recruitment
experience I joined the Company on
9th September 2008. I did not know
it was going to be as friendly as it
is here on site.Sodexo has always
supported me both from the Adelaide
Office and on site. I know Jennifer Isaac
11 | Sodexo RAP 2014
It is hard work and challenging but
the team spirit is great and it is
rewarding. Some days can be tough
when I have to push myself but then I
have other days that are not too bad.
Before Sodexo, as a sole parent, I never
thought I could buy a new car, own
my own home or help my family, but I
have achieved all of that. I feel a huge
sense of loyalty to Sodexo because
it has helped me reach my goals and
provide security for my family.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 12
Tony Ratzman
Tammy Fielding
Service Attendant
Olympic Dam (BHP BILLITON) - SA
Service Attendant
Olympic Dam (BHP BILLITON) - SA
I have particularly liked
the complete change to
my life that working with
Sodexo has given me.
Before I joined Sodexo I wanted
a better life for my family
as I have five kids. Sodexo is
helping me achieve this.
My name is Tony Ratzman and my
I stay clear when I can. If I need help
My name is Tammy Fielding and
Sodexo has been very supportive
people originally came from Victoria
or advice I can always approach
my large family comes from
and I had no trouble fitting in. I know
and New South Wales. I have a large
the Catering Manager and I feel I
Coober Pedy and Port Augusta.
there are people I can always go to
family and I am not even sure how
can now approach Jennifer Issac
many of them are located in Port
my Manager if I have any issues.
Pirie, Adelaide and New South Wales.
I first heard about Sodexo from their
presence at Prominent Hill so I put
and ask for advice; Helen the Project
Manager and some of the nurses in
the hospital and also Jen Isaac.
One of my goals was to purchase a
in my resume for a job with them
I joined Sodexo in February 2012.
new car and I have been able to do that
and was happy to be successful for
This is the first site I have worked on
I had heard about the company
through working with Sodexo. My new
employment at Roxby Hospital.
with Sodexo. I like the job and have
through a family friend. I found
goal is to obtain my forklift license so I
getting into Sodexo very easy as at
hope Sodexo can help me with that too.
the time they needed new staff.
Before Sodexo I was an Aboriginal
Family Support Services Officer in
always worked hard at my jobs. I
don’t look for any changes but I will
work hard and stay loyal to Sodexo.
I have particularly liked the complete
Whyalla. I didn’t have any expectations
My goals in life before joining Sodexo
change to my life that working
about the job but I was interested
Before I joined Sodexo I wanted a better
were to get a job with more pay and
with Sodexo has given me.
in getting to know more about
life for my family as I have five kids.
Sodexo and to meet new people.
Sodexo is helping me achieve this.
I was interested in changing my life
and working within a mining camp.
This is the only site I have been to
and I do feel a sense of loyalty to
I expected a big change when I joined
Sodexo. I would like to stay with the
which I was excited about. I like the
company but I would be interested in
work but there can sometimes be a
some different roles within Sodexo.
bit of a gossiping culture on site.
13 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 14
Wayne Yarran
Utilities
west pilbara village (RIO TINTO) - WA
I joined Sodexo on the 18th November
2010 and I remember the date very
well as it is my Mother-in-Law’s
birthday. I had heard about Sodexo
through a relative who worked
for another mining company.
My traditional country is Noongar
and my Father’s family and I are
from Quairading, a farming town
in the Wheatbelt region of Western
Australia. My Mother’s family is
Humphries, another big Noongar
family, and is from Kellerberrin
which is northeast of Quairading
but she grew up in the Goldfields
region of WA. Her parents used to
work in hostels looking after kids.
When I first came to Sodexo I was
interviewed by the Operations
Manager and Aboriginal Employment
Coordinator and they were pretty
good; they told me what I had to do.
My expectations were to start a new
15 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Elizabeth Ormerod
Utilities - TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION CAMP
Hope Downs 4 Mine (RIO TINTO) - WA
life, meet new people and earn more
money. I used to be a courier driver
for a local company in Bunbury before
Sodexo. My goal was to be a good
role model for my family, for them to
look up to me because not many of
them got the same chance as I did.
I am from Kalbarri and Geraldton way,
in the mid-west region of Western
Australia and my language group is
Wadjarri. My Grandmother comes from
Mullewa and my Granddad comes
from Morima which is the traditional
Aboriginal name for North Hampton.
At NAIDOC this year, my little sister,
who also works for Sodexo, and I had
the privilege of raising the Torres
Strait Island flag during the Opening
Ceremony. The Traditional Owners
raised the Aboriginal Flag and the
Rio Tinto team raised the Australian
Flag. On site we had traditional food
and a band called “The Bad Influence”
from Port Hedland. They got me
up on stage to sing with them.
I heard about Sodexo through a
cousin who worked with a company
called Aces and she had sent out a
few ‘feelers’ looking for employment
to mining companies. Sodexo was
the first to make contact and go
forward with my application.
My future dream is to be a mentor
for young Aboriginal kids, teach them
to get employed all their lives and
to help them achieve their goals.
I joined in April 2011 and went out
to my first site at Boddington which
was good because it was close to
where I live in Pemberton. I have
always been very well supported
from the beginning, both from the
Perth Office and on site. Wendy
Dawson and Kuzi (Martin Bin Rashid)
are easy going and very accessible
if I need to talk to someone.
My goals are to be financially
secure, for all my bills to be taken
care of and Sodexo has helped me
to achieve those goals with the
regular income it provides me.
Now I have a new goal, to buy my
own house and I believe working with
Sodexo I will achieve this goal too.
Recently we had NADIOC celebrations
at Hope Downs Village and we went
over from Hope Downs 4 Temporary
Camp for the celebrations. They had
an opening ceremony, a live band and
traditional meals. It was good to have
that on site, it made me feel special.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 16
James Unwin
Service Attendant
Hope Downs Village (RIO TINTO) - WA
17 | Sodexo RAP 2014
My name is James Unwin and as a
Sodexo Service Attendant, I cover a
variety of roles including Dining Room,
Kitchen Hand, Bar and Detailing and
I’m always learning new skills.
The management team on site has
been very supportive and are very
understanding of Aboriginal culture.
I know I can go to them with any
concerns no matter how big or small.
My family is from Kalgoorlie, my tribe
is Wongi and my great Grandmother
is one of the Stolen Generations from
South Australia. I am the oldest of
seven children with three brothers,
one sister and three step sisters
and I have an amazing fiancée
Danielle who is very supportive.
One thing I like about Sodexo is that
they embrace the Aboriginal culture
especially during NAIDOC Week.
Here at Hope Downs Village, I was
involved in setting up and assisting
the Chefs in cooking our traditional
food. It was a good experience.
I joined Sodexo on 20th August
2012, having heard about them
through my cousin Theo who worked
at Sodexo Hope Downs Village.
When I joined, my goal was to
buy my own house and start a
future with my fiancée. Sodexo
has given me the opportunity
to work towards these goals.
From the start I have felt supported by
I would love to work for Sodexo for a
Head Office Indigenous Department
and through the recruitment
process I was very excited to come
to site and meet new people.
long time, as I feel a sense of loyalty
and Sodexo has made my family very
proud of me and my achievements.
Shanika Hutchison
Chef
Hope DownS 4 Mine (RIO TINTO) - WA
I started working with Sodexo
in October 2012 as a third year
Apprentice Chef. I heard about Sodexo
at an information session BHP was
conducting in Perth about mining job
opportunities. My dreams were to go
and work on a site as a Chef and earn
the big bucks to set myself up for the
future so that I can travel the world
and one day open my own business.
I was born and raised on a farm in
Serpentine, about 45 km south of
Perth before moving to Esperance
in the South East region of WA.
My traditional Aboriginal language
group is Wongutha, the Traditional
Custodians of the Goldfields region.
When I started with Sodexo I was
placed on a site in the Pilbara region of
Western Australia called Hope Downs
4 Mine. I did not know what to expect
on site but I was not expecting it to
be so big and flash, with swimming
pools, gym and a big kitchen area. I
knew it was going to be hard for the
first couple of swings as I didn’t know
anyone, but I gradually fitted myself
right in. Everyone made it easy for
me because they were all friendly and
made sure I settled in. Being on site is
like my second home now. I love the
work, the culture and atmosphere on
site and in the kitchen. I love that it
is so multicultural within the kitchen
and that I get to work alongside people
from all over the world who teach
me things about their culture and
I get to share things about mine.
Being with Sodexo will help me
reach my goals. Already Sodexo
has helped me in securing my own
house and has kick started my
dreams of travel as I was able to save
and go on a holiday to Thailand.
Hope Downs 4 Mine is the only site
I have been to, unfortunately I was
on R&R the week Sodexo celebrated
NAIDOC, but I know the site had a
celebration, with decorations, a flag
raising ceremony and traditional food
for everyone. I am very happy to stay
with Sodexo and I have just finished off
my apprenticeship. I really appreciate
what Sodexo has done for me.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 18
Karl Bin Rashid
Apprentice Plumber and Gas Fitter
West Pilbara Village (RIO TINTO) - WA
Joanne Blatchford
Service Attendant
Yandicoogina (rio tinto) - WA
I joined Sodexo in March 2012,
I have always felt well supported at
I started with Sodexo on 1st September
new young Aboriginal staff that come
my father Martin Bin Rashid also
head office and on site, I can always
2011 after I heard about the company
to work on our site. Yandi is a site where
works for Sodexo as Indigenous
go to Benny (Ben Richards) the
from a family member.
everyone looks after each other and it’s
Business Development Manager. I
Electrician and Chad the Fridgey for
enjoyed the recruitment process as
any help and advice. Basically all the
I met a lot of people which made it
maintenance crew are there to help me.
easier to get settled into work.
I am a Yamatji Ngarlu woman, born in
great to work here.
Geraldton in the mid-west region of
An experience that I really enjoyed
Western Australia. I am married with
through Sodexo was going to the
Sodexo is helping me fulfill my dreams,
two children and one granddaughter
Star Awards. As well as working with
My Father is from Bidyadanga
finishing my trade is my main goal.
and I have six brothers and five sisters.
everybody, going to these awards made
(Karajari) and my Mother is from
What I enjoy about working with
the Dampier Peninsula (Bardi).
Sodexo is getting the opportunity to
My goal when I joined was to finish
learning my trade and Sodexo is
helping me to do that. My first
site was Hope Downs 4 Mine.
I never had trouble fitting in; people
on site are easy to get along with.
Everyone on site is like a second
family away from home.
work on multiple sites and meeting
different people. At first the only
I found the whole recruitment process
quite daunting but I was supported
I really enjoy NAIDOC week on site.
through it by the Sodexo Perth office.
Sodexo always has celebrations and
thing I didn’t enjoy was the flying,
My goal before joining Sodexo was to be
but I have got used to that now.
able to save some money, pay off some
I would like to stay with Sodexo
me feel a part of one big happy family.
loans and I wanted to meet new people.
to finish learning my trade and
I don’t have any problems fitting into
the next stage is the gas fitting
life at Yandi. I feel I have great support
side of my apprenticeship.
from the management team at Yandi.
I like their “open door policy”. I feel that
I have been involved for the last two
years on site, helping to set up the
BBQs and sampling the traditional food.
I have never been to any other site, I
feel loyal to Sodexo and I really enjoy
working at Yandi. I would like to stay
there and try some other roles.
I am able to be a good role model for
19 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 20
Janey OrreaL
Cleaner Residential
rio tinto alcan Weipa, Nth QLd
I started working with Sodexo in
I am a Torres Strait Islander and
September 2011 and I used to
my family is from Saint Paul’s
work for Spotless doing residential
Island near Thursday Island.
house cleaning. The Sodexo
recruitment process was good,
they were really helpful and told
me everything and I got the job.
21 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Helen the Sodexo Manager has been
really supportive to me right from
the start, she listens, she gives me
confidence and helps me sort out my
I’m a Weipa local and I wanted a full
stuff. I will always be loyal to Helen. The
time job. I thought Sodexo would be a
other Managers have been good too, we
good company to work for and they are.
are a small team, we all listen and help.
My goals in life were to support my
I’m very comfortable on site and feel
family and live better. I’ve always
supported, I haven’t had any trouble
just wanted to work so that I could
fitting in. I love my job and the team
look after my kids. Sodexo gave me a
I work with. It’s great having my kids
good job. I’ve never owned a new car
close by to support. The culture on
until I started working with Sodexo.
site is good, people are respectful.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 22
Relationships
We recognise and acknowledge the richness and
diversity of cultures in Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander communities and the positive impact
this diversity has in the Sodexo workplace.
We place a high priority on developing and nurturing
lasting and respectful relationships with individuals
and communities on whose country Sodexo is present.
We believe that strong culture, language and identity
are the foundations of prosperous communities.
23 | Sodexo RAP 2014
ACTION
RESPONSIBILITY
TIMELINE
TARGET
RAP Indigenous Steering
Committee (ISC) continues
to actively monitor RAP
development, including
implementation of actions
and tracking progress.
RAP Delivery
Coordinator
February &
August 2014
Convene two face-to-face ISC
meetings per year to oversee and
discuss RAP implementation.
Celebrate National
Sorry Day and National
Reconciliation Week and
provide opportunities for
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander employees
and other employees to
build relationships with
the local communities.
Heads of Regional
Operations &
State Managers
26 May - 3 June 2014
Host at least one public and one
private event in every State/Territory
in which Sodexo operates.
Celebrate and participate
in the promotion and
public endorsement of the
campaign to change the
Australian Constitution to
recognise Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples.
National Indigenous
Manager &
Marketing Director
February 2014
Prepare and make available on the
website, Sodexo’s public endorsement
of Constitutional Recognition.
Heads of Regional
Operations &
State Managers
By September 2014
Support, sponsor or participate in at
least one Journey to Recognition or other
Recognise Campaign activity in every
location in which Sodexo operates
Provide a strong level of
commitment to supply chain
diversity and significant
opportunities for our
Indigenous supply partners
Indigenous Steering
Committee
February 2014
Identify and appoint a ‘Supplier
Diversity Program’ lead
March 2014
Establish a ‘Supplier Diversity
Advocacy Network’
Priority Owners
January 2014
Identify key target Indigenous suppliers
Indigenous Steering
Committee
January 2014
Identify and appoint a ‘Supplier
Diversity Communications’ lead
All staff are encouraged to participate in
at least one event during National Sorry
Day & National Reconciliation Week.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 24
2013 National Reconciliation
Week at Sodexo
14
MAY
At Sodexo, during National
Reconciliation Week (NRW)
(27 May to 3 June every
year) we celebrate and
build on the relationships
shared with Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people
and other Australians.
This year, to join the National
Reconciliation effort, we hosted
a number of NRW events
across the country some of
which are highlighted.
23
MAY
27
MAY
29
MAY
Careers and Aspirations Camp NCIE Redfern – 29 May
Images courtesy of National Aboriginal
Sporting Chance Academy
30
MAY
25 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo attended the launch of Mission Australia’s inaugural National
Aboriginal Youth Report at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence
(NCIE) in Sydney and a similar event at Charcoal Lane in Melbourne, a week
later to mark NRW. Our participation is a way to support and honour our
business partnership and growing relationship with Mission Australia to deliver
community development initiatives with local Indigenous communities.
Johnpaul Dimech, CEO Sodexo Australia, published a message to all Sodexo
employees in commemoration of NRW. The CEO’s message conveyed information
regarding the significance of the two milestone dates, Sodexo’s Reconciliation Action
Plan and how we are working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and
communities across the country to strengthen the connectedness of our services.
Sodexo and the Client at Hail Creek site in Queensland hosted an interactive
workshop to share information and improve employees and residents’
understanding and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories.
Sodexo hosted a BBQ lunch for 35 Indigenous students from Dubbo Senior College,
who were in Sydney for a Careers and Aspirations camp. Our NSW team of Rachel,
Shay and Ram took the students through our recruitment opportunities, the
attributes we value as an employer, as well as advice on how to take their first steps
into the workforce. The whole event was a great success and we owe a big thank
you to the students, NCIE and the National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy.
Sodexo hosted an NRW luncheon in Perth. We partnered with Black Screen at the
National Film and Sound Archive to access and offer several short films telling
the stories of important events in the Australian Indigenous timeline (MaboLife of Island Man, Our Generation, Island Fettlers and Flour, Sugar, Tea).
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 26
Birriliburu Indigenous
Protected Area Ceremony
Written by Catherine Rainey
Sodexo Jundee Project Manager
Someone hands me a swag.... “You’ll be needing that!”
“What’s a swag?”, I ask myself.
Sodexo at Jundee Newmont has been asked to
support a community event at Milyinirri community,
by providing catering and hospitality services.
Four hours from site in the desert, world famous
and a pilgrimage for many people interested in
the history of the land. A three day event catering
for 120 attendees from all walks of life.
They want their country back and are able to manage
it as their Elders have shown them. So with the aid
of the Central Desert Management team they have
reclaimed their Native Title land ownership once
more. They have entered into an agreement with
the Australian Government to promote biodiversity
and cultural resource conservation in the area as
well as promoting tourism and employment.
Birriliburu country is big and it is remote. It is
approximately 6.6 million hectares in size and extends
from Katjarra in the west, to the Gibson Desert in the
east and from Mungarlu in the north to the pastoral
stations in the south. This country belongs to the
Birriliburu Native Title holders, the Martu people.
The Sodexo team comprising Todd Cheavins, Mindy
Ross, Eric Whiting and I were humbled to be a part of
such a life changing event for this community. Serving
breakfast, lunch and dinner for three days to Martu
(Birriliburu) Traditional Owners, Central Desert Native
Title Services, the Newmont representarives, Ministers
of State and Federal government and heads of state
and federal agencies was an absolute privilege. We
relished in taking part in the activities throughout
the days, painting, cooking with the women, hiking
and talking with some really interesting people!
They and their ancestors lived and walked this
country for thousands of years until others
started to take an interest in their country.
Images provided by the Central Desert
Native Title Services and Newmont.
Camping in swags, cleaning and cooking, limited
access to power, storage and preparation space
and very basic facilities – sounds great to me!
27 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 28
How is Sodexo’s support
significant to Newmont Jundee?
Written by Guy Singleton,
Written by Rob Thomas,
Senior Advisor Community
General Manager Land and
Relations, Environment and Social
Community Program, Central
Responsibility, Newmont Jundee
Desert Native Title Services
“Both of our ‘Ranger’ programs use the same
pool of Martu people who are now responsible
for managing the Birriliburu IPA. This voluntary
commitment by Newmont and Sodexo has not
gone unnoticed; both Newmont and Sodexo received
strong public recognition from the Birriliburu people
and all government representatives for our ongoing
support of their cause at last week’s Declaration.”
“It is important to formally acknowledge and
thank Sodexo and Newmont for their fantastic
support for the Birriliburu IPA ceremony.
There has been a frenzy of positive discussion
and activity, inspired by the ceremony.
“Given the success of the Birriliburu IPA
catering thanks to the Sodexo team, we were
approached to provide similar support for the
Wiluna Determination at the end of July.”
29 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Your very generous, enthusiastic and professional
support has played an enormous role in inspiring
further dialogue with existing partners and initiating
discussions with potential new collaborators.
Having superb food and friendly and engaging
staff made everyone feel very much at home.
The feedback from the gang that were with
me is that they wanted to stay out longer, a
true sign of both joy and comfort I reckon!”
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 30
RESPECT
Sodexo admires and respects the unique and diverse cultures
of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in
the locations where we operate. We consider it a privilege to
have interactions with the Traditional Owners, Elders and
community members, and to witness the cultural activities
and the cross cultural experiences. Over the years our teams
have gained a greater understanding of the importance of
culture and self-determination to ensure a stronger future
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Cross-cultural training for all staff is an essential component
of Sodexo’s aim to be a workplace of choice for Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people. We will continue to work with
Traditional Owner groups to offer cross cultural support to ensure
our teams are proactive towards the four priorities of our RAP.
31 | Sodexo RAP 2014
ACTION
RESPONSIBILITY
TIMELINE
TARGET
Provide a strong level of commitment
to supply chain diversity and
significant opportunities for our
Indigenous supply partners.
Priority Owners
June 2014
Develop and communicate a ‘Supplier Diversity
Policy’ focusing on educating Sodexo staff
on the importance of Aboriginal business to
creating community wealth and sustainability
Celebrate NAIDOC Week and provide
opportunities for Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander employees and
other employees to build relationships
with the local communities.
Heads of Regional
Operations &
State Managers
6 – 13 July
2014
Host at least one public and one private event in
every State/Territory in which Sodexo operates.
Give ongoing support as a major
sponsor, to the Yothu Yindi
Foundation’s annual Garma
Festival through the provision
of catering, hospitality and
facilities management services.
Head of Operations
QLD/NT, National
Indigenous
Manager
June 2014
Equip Site Project Managers with a
toolkit to enhance their Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander engagement
skills and cultural knowledge.
Priority Owner
& Champions
Standardise a consistent introductory
level cross cultural training program
(eLearning) for every new Sodexo
employee nationally to increase
understanding and appreciation
of the diversity of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander cultures.
Priority Owner
& Champions
Develop Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander cultural protocol
guidelines for Acknowledgment of
Country and Welcome to Country.
Indigenous
Department
& Delivery
Coordinator
All staff are encouraged to participate in at
least one event during NAIDOC Week.
Recruit Sodexo Garma volunteers through
internal expression of interest
Offer Garma hospitality employment
to local Yolngu individuals
August 2014
Provide full catering, hospitality and
facilities management services
March 2014
Develop intermediate level engagement
and cross cultural content.
By June 2014
Implement Management Development
Program (MDP) training materials
February 2014
Develop introductory cross cultural
training program content
March 2014
Include program in Sodexo pre-employment
induction as a mandatory component
January 2014
Develop a list of key contacts for organising
a Welcome to Country protocol
At significant
events in 2014
Invite Traditional Owner/s to give a Welcome
to Country at significant Sodexo events
Prior to all
events in 2014
Support/educate senior leaders to personally
reply to a Welcome to Country and to
give an Acknowledgement of Country
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 32
NAIDOC
Week 2013
NAIDOC Week is the most
significant event on the Australian
Indigenous calendar celebrating
the history, culture and
achievements of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people.
Above Images:
Flag raising Ceremony
at Hope Downs 4 Mine
Top Right Image:
Flag Raising Ceremony
West Angelas
33 | Sodexo RAP 2014
NAIDOC is celebrated not only in Indigenous
communities, but by Australians from all walks of life.
The theme for NAIDOC 2013 was a proud celebration
of the 50th anniversary of the presentation of the
Yirrkala Bark Petitions to the Federal Parliament.
In August 1963 the Yolngu people of Yirrkala in
northeast Arnhem Land, sent two bark petitions
framed by traditional ochre paintings of clan designs
to the Australian House of Representatives.
The petitions protested the Commonwealth’s
granting of mining rights on land excised from
Arnhem Land Reserve and sought recognition by
the Australian Parliament of the Yolngu peoples’
traditional rights and ownership of their lands.
Each year Sodexo selects one site to be the main
focus of its NAIDOC celebrations and works closely
with the Traditional Owners and Client to plan
and host a range of activities and events.
The Flag raising ceremony is an integral
part of the NAIDOC celebrations.
This year Sodexo’s main focus was at
the Rio Tinto Hope Downs 4 Mine in the
Pilbara region of Western Australia.
There were many other sites that took part in
NAIDOC week; Boddington, Prominent Hill, Hope
Downs Village, West Angelas, Olympic Dam, Roxby
Downs, Weipa, Yarrie and Gap Ridge Village.
Celebrations traditionally commence with a Welcome
to Country, this is an ancient and significant
Aboriginal tradition which offers a warm welcome
and safe travel when treading on the lands of others;
followed by the Flag Raising Ceremony, traditional
foods, art exhibitions and music from local bands.
On every site, NAIDOC Week is the one event
in the year that is eagerly awaited by client,
contractors and Sodexo residents.
We all look to a future that better understands and
celebrates the unique connection that Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people share with the country
and waters. We continue to build an Australia that
reflects the achievements and aspirations of all people.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 34
NAIDOC
Week 2013
08
JULY
SODEXO NAIDOC DINNER
MONDAY 8 JULY 2013
MENU
Roasted Tomato Soup with parmesan, croutons and damper
Roasted Lamb Legs with bush chutney glaze
Whole Barramundi with Lemon Myrtle
Emu and Kangaroo Sausages
Kangaroo Red Wine Stew
Garlic and Bush Herb Mash Potato with caramelised onion
Quandong Fruit Pie
Opposite page images
From Hope Downs , Boddington and Prominent Hill accommodation villages
35 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 36
Garma
festival 2013
For the past ten years Sodexo
has been a major sponsor and
contributor to the annual Garma
Festival, in partnership with
the Yothu Yindi Foundation.
Above Images:
Images © Yothu Yindi
Foundation, Garma 2013
Photographer: Luke Lilburn
37 | Sodexo RAP 2014
For the past ten years Sodexo has been a major
sponsor and contributor to the annual Garma Festival,
in partnership with the Yothu Yindi Foundation. Garma
is Australia’s largest Indigenous cultural exchange, a
spectacular display of unity and a two-way cultural
learning process hosted by the Yolngu nation of NE
Arnhemland in the Australian Northern Territory.
The Garma experience is unique. It is
likened to Reconciliation in its purity and
its impact on the nation is significant.
For the past 14 years around 2,500 visitors from
all over Australia have gathered and camped at
Gulkula, a traditional ceremonial meeting ground
which is culturally significant to the Yolngu people.
Its position is remote, 50 kilometres on a dirt
road from the nearest town of Nhulunbuy.
For Sodexo, the Garma Festival involves
setting up full bush kitchen facilities at
Gulkula, preparing and serving 22,500 meals
over three days to the participants.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 38
Our employees view
being selected as a
Chef or Hospitality
volunteer at the
Garma Festival as a
career highlight.
Opposite Page:
Images © Yothu Yindi
Foundation, Garma 2013
Photographer: Peter Eve
Message from Johnpaul Dimech,
CEO Sodexo
“Sodexo is a proud partner with the Yothu Yindi Foundation
since 2004 and at this year’s Garma we celebrated the ten
year anniversary of our partnership. It has been a privilege
to assist with the successful delivery of each Garma event
for the past ten years through the provision of hot, healthy
and nutritious meals served by our professional team.
Our employees view being selected as a Chef or Hospitality
volunteer at the Garma Festival as a career highlight. Each year
I am overwhelmed by the continuing interest demonstrated
in being a part of the Sodexo “Garma crew”. With NAIDOC and
the nation focused in 2013 on celebrating the anniversary
of the Yirrkala Bark Petitions it is timely that I acknowledge
the enduring leadership role that the Yolngu people have
played in paving the way for a reconciled Australia.”
Denise Bowden - Executive Officer
Yothu Yindi Foundation
“I’ve been pleased with this year’s Garma programming, the
calibre of the guests attending, and the quality of our crew
and highly skilled volunteers. Sodexo once again provided an
exemplary service, far and wide the catering received great
reviews – compliments to your team and also the cleaning of
the guest facilities should be acknowledged. Many thanks.”
39 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 40
Opportunities
ACTION
Embed a ‘whole
of organisation’
responsibility for
increasing Aboriginal
and Torres Strait
Islander employment
and retention.
TIMELINE
TARGET
Indigenous
Assessment Panel
Monthly meetings
Provide second chance employment
opportunities which address historical
employment barriers, i.e. Health, fitness,
criminal records, vehicle licenses.
Head of Regional
Ops Rio Tinto
By September 2014
Increase and maintain Aboriginal
& Torres Strait Islander employee
workforce from 50 (8%) to 60 (10%)
Head of Regional Ops WA
By September 2014
Increase and maintain Aboriginal
& Torres Strait Islander employee
workforce from 44 (7%) to 62 (10%)
Head of Regional
Ops QLD/NT
By September 2014
Increase and maintain Aboriginal
& Torres Strait Islander employee
workforce from 28 (6%) to 45 (10%)
Head of Regional
Ops SA/VIC
By September 2014
Increase and maintain Aboriginal
& Torres Strait Islander employee
workforce from 15 (5%) to 25 (10%)
Sodexo Australia Chief
Operating Officer
By September 2014
Establish and maintain Aboriginal &
Torres Strait Islander workforce of 28
Offer a range of
apprenticeships,
traineeships, flexible
rosters and job-share
arrangements.
Organisational
Development Manager &
HR Business Partners
By September 2014
Commence five new Apprenticeships
(Chef, Plumber, Electrician, Refrigeration
Mechanic) across Sodexo business sectors
Support and commit
to the growth and
sustainability of the
Outback Academy
at Roelands Village,
Southwest region WA.
NBG Sodexo Project
Manager & Organisational
Development Manager
1 in February 2014 &
1 by September 2014
Commence two Apprentices
We are committed to supporting Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people and communities
in the locations where we operate, to improve
the quality of life and overall wellbeing.
Providing training, offering sustainable employment
and supporting local Indigenous business enterprise
are priorities. We have taken the successful steps to
assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals
to secure employment. We will continue to strive to be
an employer of choice for Indigenous Australians.
41 | Sodexo RAP 2014
RESPONSIBILITY
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 42
ACTION
Build individual
capacity through
training and career
pathways and have
a strong focus
on retention.
Demonstrate a strong
level of commitment
to supply chain
diversity and increase
opportunities for
our Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander
supply partners
43 | Sodexo RAP 2014
RESPONSIBILITY
Organisational
Development
Manager, HR Business
Partners, National
Indigenous Manager
TIMELINE
TARGET
February 2014
Launch Sodexo ‘New Employee
Buddy’ Program
From February 2014
Allocate a workplace ‘Buddy’ to each
new Indigenous employee
September 2013
Launch the pilot My Moola financial
literacy program in partnership
with First Nations Foundation
March 2014
Develop the concept framework for the Sodexo
My Mob Indigenous employee network
May 2014
Implement the My Mob retention strategy
Priority Owners
February 2014
Identify key category areas for Indigenous
supplier engagement opportunities
Priority Owners
November 2013
Determine baseline current Indigenous spend
Priority Owners & ISC
By September 2014
Increase total Indigenous category spend
by almost double to $250,000
Priority Owners & ISC
By September 2014
Increase number of Indigenous
suppliers by seven to a total of 14
Priority Owners & ISC
By September 2014
Prepare and implement a supplier diversity
strategy for targeting Stage 1 growth
Priority Owners,
Champions & Head of
Regional Ops SA/VIC
By September 2014
Host a ‘First Steps’ training workshop
for SA Tier 1 suppliers.
In August 2012 Sodexo was
awarded the Outcare Second Chance
Employer for providing employment
opportunities to Indigenous
ex-offenders in Western Australia.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 44
Boddington Noongar
Poles Project
Photos provided by Community
Arts Network WA (CAN WA)
Top Left:
Sodexo Employee Donna
Beach preparing the Poles
Top Middle:
Sodexo‘s Donna Beach
with Cheryl Noah,
Newmont Village Coordinator
Newmont Boddington Gold Mine is situated 130 kilometres south –
southeast from Perth and 16 kilometres from the Boddington town
centre. Sodexo has been managing the 2,300 person accommodation
village for Newmont since it opened in February 2010.
In January 2013 CAN WA, Newmont, Sodexo and the
Gnaala Karla Boodja community collaborated to commence
the Boddington Noongar Poles Project. The project was a
Community Arts venture, working with young Aboriginal
people from the surrounding Narrogin and Pingelly areas,
as well as local community members from Boddington.
The aim was to create a culturally appropriate, Noongar
themed art installation outside of the Dry Mess Entrance
in Newmont Boddington Gold Accommodation Village.
The Jarrah poles were sourced from a local timber mill in
Dwellingup. Internationally renowned Aboriginal Artist Lance
Chadd was commissioned to oversee the project and assist
the team in providing inspiration and ideas for the poles.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 46
Boddington Noongar
Poles Project
Photos provided by Community
Arts Network WA (CAN WA)
Bottom Left:
Sodexo employees Clive Ugle
and Barry Humphries and
Graeme Millar from CAN WA
with Chris and Cameron,
some of the Community
members from Narrogin who
worked on the project
Bottom Middle:
Artist Lance Chadd
and Trish Agent
Donna Beach, a Sodexo employee and respected local Aboriginal
Artist, was bought on board to assist with the artistic aspect. The
plan was to position the poles in a circle representing the Noongar
seasons and surrounded by appropriately chosen native plants.
Both Sodexo and Newmont employees assisted with the
preparation and art work. The resulting public artwork on
display outside the Boddington Accommodation Village
is a bold, bright and engaging art piece representing
the Noongar seasons in both Noongar and English,
and featuring the flora and fauna of the area.
The Noongar Boddington Poles project is testament that
magic does happen through shared resources, expertise and
passion. Sodexo is committed to having strong partnerships
with community, client and local stakeholders.
This is especially true when the partnership
has the potential to engage with and empower
Indigenous communities and individuals.
47 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 48
The Sodexo Yaru
Water Partnership
Sodexo facilitated introductions
to national logistics providers.
This resulted in a national
distribution and logistics
solution that allowed Yaru to
confidently grow its business.
Image Top Right:
Yaru Directors
Kyle Slabb (L) and
Shaun Martin (R)
49 | Sodexo RAP 2014
In early 2012 Sodexo became a strong supporter
and advocate of Yaru Pty Ltd and its product known
as Yaru Water. The water is bottled at the source,
flowing deep beneath an ancient volcano (Mt
Warning) in the Tweed-Byron region in Bundjalung
country in northern NSW. In the early months,
Sodexo looked beyond its own commercial gain
and provided assistance to the Yaru team to
identify and secure better logistics solutions.
We understood and acknowledged the challenges
that Yaru Pty Ltd faced in distribution and logistics
especially in servicing the larger national corporate
customers. Sodexo facilitated introductions to
national logistics providers. This resulted in a
national distribution and logistics solution that
allowed Yaru to confidently grow its business. Now
Yaru Water can be delivered anywhere in Australia.
Yaru Pty Ltd Operations Manager
Tessa Martin, said:
“Without Sodexo’s support we would
not have had the volumes to support
distribution and logistics negotiations.
They not only organised meetings with
key logistics providers and their senior
staff, but their Director of Supply Chain
personally attended those meetings in an
open show of support. The Sodexo Diversity
Management Team’s ongoing personal
advocacy, promotion and referral to other
corporate members in their network also
helped us secure major corporate contracts.
Sodexo has also promoted our water within
their own customer base, successfully
converting some to our product.”
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 50
United Nations
Case Study
In late 2012, Sodexo received a letter from the
United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) in New
York congratulating the company on its impressive
Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) initiative. The
UNGC invited Sodexo to submit a case study
for inclusion in the Practical Supplement of
the United Nations Declaration on the Rights
of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Guide.
The purpose of the Practical Supplement is to
highlight positive ways businesses across the globe
are engaging to meet their corporate responsibility to
respect Indigenous peoples’ rights. The case studies
represent particularly successful, innovative, or unique
approaches to Indigenous peoples’ rights and business.
51 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo was one of a selected group of organisations
invited to participate. The Sodexo Australia case study
focused on Sodexo’s work in supporting Indigenous
job seekers to overcome barriers to employment
and promoting cultural diversity in the workplace.
The Business Reference Guide and Practical
Supplement was launched in Geneva in early
December 2013, and in Sydney a weeek later,
alongside the Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Social Justice Commissioner’s 2013
Social Justice and Native Title Report.
When Sodexo prepared its first RAP in 2011 it outlined
practical actions the organisation would undertake to
build strong relationships, respect and opportunities
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
When Sodexo prepared
its first RAP in 2011 it
outlined practical actions
the organisation would
undertake to build strong
relationships, respect
and opportunities for
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people.
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 52
Tracking progress and reporting
ACTION
RESPONSIBILITY
TIMELINE
TARGET
Report achievements,
challenges and learnings
to Reconciliation
Australia for inclusion
in the Annual Impact
Measurement Report.
RAP Delivery
Coordinator
By September 2014
Complete and submit the RAP
Impact Measurement Questionnaire
to Reconciliation Australia
Distribute a Reconciliation
Action Plan to Sodexo
employees and make
available to all stakeholders
via the intranet
RAP Delivery
Coordinator &
Marketing Director
By end
December 2013
All Sodexo employees and
stakeholders have access to a
Reconciliation Action Plan
Prepare and publish half
yearly progress reports
for stakeholders
RAP Delivery
Coordinator &
Marketing Director
March 2014 &
September 2014
Reports available on website
Contact details
Wendy Dawson, RAP Delivery Coordinator,
08 9242 0773, [email protected]
53 | Sodexo RAP 2014
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 54
For more information, please contact:
VICTORIA
Level 8, 607 St Kilda Road
Melbourne VIC 3004
Tel: (03) 9880 6300
NEW SOUTH WALES
Suite 402
Level 4, 11 Help Street
Chatswood NSW 2067
Tel: (02) 9461 6100
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
247 Balcatta Road
Balcatta WA 6021
Tel: (08) 9242 0700
QUEENSLAND
Unit 23, 67 Depot Street
Banyo QLD 4014
Tel (07)3307 8000
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Level 11, 50 Grenfell St
Adelaide SA 5000
Tel: (08) 8198 1100
For general enquiries:
1800 SODEXO
www.sodexo.com.au
Sodexo RAP 2014 | 55