ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has today celebrated the launch of its inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to advance meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
ABB Australia's RAP not only formalises the company’s approach to reconciliation, maps practical steps towards achieving greater awareness and inclusiveness across the organisation.
Primarily the RAP 2013 – 2015 will aide ABB's drive over the next three years towards the establishment of effective training and employment programs to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to access and retain jobs across all its business divisions.
In addition, the plan considers how ABB in Australia can provide more opportunities and effective outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customers and supply partners. ABB will also focus on educating its workforce on the rich history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through cultural training sessions and believes this will play a fundamental role in ABB's contribution to reconciliation.
"Being a truly global company, spanning some 100 countries, ABB is built on a culture of acceptance, inclusiveness and respect of all peoples," said Axel Kuhr, Country Manager, ABB in Australia. "By implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan, we demonstrate our commitment to providing sustainable working opportunities and better engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia."
"It is not only the right thing to do for the growth and success of our business, the right thing to do for the growth and prosperity of all Australians," added Axel
The plan, developed by ABB Australia in consultation with LBF Consulting, sets actionable priorities in the areas of relationships, respect, opportunities and reporting. The objectives
· Build strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples, communities and businesses
· Cultivate a deeper understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders culture, history and contemporary issues.
· Increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders participation through employment and procurement opportunities
· ABB is committed to tracking and reporting our RAP progress to ensure this plan remains a living document
The history of ABB in Australia goes back to the late nineteenth century. Today, ABB's operations in Australia include manufacturing facilities in Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Darwin and Melbourne and Service Centres around the country. With over 2000 employees located at 14 sites nationally, customers are served through an extensive country-wide presence. Of those 2000 employees, approximately 27 are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
