In the last episode of the Bendigo Business Stories podcast Season 4, we delve into the transformative power of social procurement and its impact on the Bendigo community. Hosted by Ben Dylon, the episode features an enlightening conversation with Vanessa from the Downer Group, exploring how innovative recruitment and onboarding practices are creating meaningful employment opportunities and fostering a more inclusive workforce.
Social procurement is not just a buzzword; it’s a strategic approach to making positive social impacts through business operations. In this episode, Ben and Vanessa discuss how the Bendigo Hospital Project has become a beacon of social responsibility by integrating social procurement into its core strategies. They share inspiring stories of how local partnerships and innovative recruitment processes have opened doors for individuals who might otherwise face barriers to employment.
One of the standout moments in the episode is the discussion on how the Bendigo Hospital Project managed to recruit over 50 individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, turning a challenging situation into an opportunity for community growth. By partnering with local organisations like CVGT, LCMS, and headspace, they were able to identify and support candidates who were eager to contribute to their community but lacked traditional access to employment opportunities.
The episode also highlights the importance of creating an inclusive workplace where employees feel valued and supported. Vanessa shares insights into how Downer Group’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has led to a remarkable retention rate of 96-97% among disadvantaged employees. This success story underscores the potential of social procurement to not only fill immediate job vacancies but also to build a sustainable and resilient workforce for the future.
For business owners and HR professionals, this episode offers practical advice on how to implement social procurement strategies in their organisations. From rethinking traditional recruitment processes to fostering community partnerships, there are actionable steps that can lead to significant social and economic benefits.
As the conversation wraps up, Ben and Vanessa reflect on the broader implications of their work, expressing hope that their model of social procurement can be replicated across Australia. The episode serves as a powerful reminder that businesses, regardless of size, have the potential to drive positive change in their communities.
Tune in to this inspiring episode to learn more about the role of social procurement in shaping the future of employment and how you can be part of this change. Whether you’re a business leader, HR professional, or community advocate, there’s something in this episode for everyone interested in making a difference.
This season is proudly brought to you by Be.Bendigo and Workforce Australia Local Jobs, funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
