In Kalgoorlie, where gold mines dominate the job market and staff turnover can be high, OCS Australia is proving there’s another way to build a reliable workforce – by opening doors for people who have often been overlooked.
A partnership with Waalitj Foundation
When our Kalgoorlie site took on services for the City of Kalgoorlie Boulder, we wanted more than just to fill rosters. We wanted to make a lasting contribution to the community. That search led to a partnership with the Waalitj Foundation – a respected Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) that helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians into education, training and long‑term employment.
Waalitj offers far more than introductions. Their team provides up to 26 weeks of wraparound support – helping with transport, meals, clothing, and even visiting sites alongside candidates to ensure they feel safe and supported.
Kerrie Stones, Workforce Australia Program Manager at the Waalitj Foundation, says the relationship with OCS is a strong match:
“OCS has proven to be a reliable and culturally respectful partner in supporting First Nations jobseekers. Their commitment to inclusive employment practices, flexible onboarding, and ongoing mentoring aligns strongly with the Waalitj Foundation’s values. OCS actively collaborates with our team to create culturally safe workplaces and provides meaningful career pathways, not just jobs.”
Four new Indigenous colleagues, and growing
Through Waalitj, OCS has already welcomed four new Indigenous colleagues this year into our Kalgoorlie operations. Each person brings skills and perspectives that enrich our teams and strengthen our connection to the region.
Santhy Pallotta, OCS GM Operations Southern Region, says the partnership has been embraced locally:
“Our customer, the City of Kalgoorlie Boulder, was excited we were proceeding with this partnership. It aligns with their values and their commitment to the Indigenous community.”
Building trust, respect and opportunity
This initiative is about more than recruitment. It shows respect for the communities we work in and builds trust through action. Waalitj’s programme is designed to set people up for success, and OCS is proud to be part of that journey.
Santhy says: “Waalitj were impressed with the support OCS gives our colleagues – everything from wellbeing services to opportunities for growth. That’s what made this such a good fit for both organisations.”
Looking ahead
Waalitj has a national footprint and is keen to expand its reach. OCS is exploring where else this partnership could make a difference, supporting more people into secure, meaningful work while delivering consistent, high‑quality services for our customers.
At OCS, our mission is to make people and places the best they can be. In Kalgoorlie, that mission is already taking shape – one opportunity at a time.
