ANZ celebrates 15-year partnership with refugee employment program

Banking & Financial Services
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Keren Roberts General Manager, Strategic Execution | Australia and New Zealand Banking Group

ANZ marks a significant milestone this week, celebrating 15 years of collaboration with the Brotherhood of St Laurence's Given the Chance program. This initiative began in 2007 with five refugee placements and has expanded over the years, reaching 55 placements in 2022.

The program aims to provide meaningful employment opportunities for disadvantaged job seekers, particularly refugees and asylum seekers. ANZ has welcomed over 370 participants since its inception, with approximately 60 percent continuing their careers in permanent roles at the bank.

Katherine Bray, ANZ Managing Director Retail Banking, stated: “Given the Chance has had an enormous impact at ANZ over the last 15 years. The opportunity to join a professional workplace in Australia has helped many people gain invaluable practical experience and build their networks.”

Bray further emphasized that the program benefits not only its participants but also enhances organizational performance and promotes an inclusive culture within ANZ.

The Given the Chance program addresses challenges faced by business leaders in talent acquisition and retention. In 2023, it continued to support job seekers and responded to geopolitical issues by welcoming Ukrainian refugees into ANZ.

Jo Tabit, Senior Manager at Brotherhood of St Laurence, remarked: “ANZ are an exceptional employer when it comes to working in partnership on diverse and inclusive employment. Over many years they have consistently provided real jobs for a range of people from marginalised groups in our community.”

Tabit highlighted that participants often use their success to give back to their communities through mentoring and support initiatives.

As part of its commitment to fostering an inclusive workforce, ANZ supports various programs like Given the Chance. The Brotherhood of St Laurence's flagship employment program offers training and placements across sectors such as banking and finance. Job seekers can express interest year-round.

ANZ remains dedicated to promoting diversity within its workforce while maintaining an inclusive environment throughout the organization.