Annual Review
maxsolutions.com.au
“There’s nothing like the buzz that you get when you see someone who hasn’t had a job for all sorts of reasons, is given another chance.” Scott Laing, General Manager VIC/TAS
2 | 2017 Year in Review
Contents Deborah’s Message
2
About MAX Solutions
3
Summary of the Year
4
DELIVER
6
MAX Employment
7
jobactive 8 Disability Employment Services (DES)
9
New Programs
10
Indigenous Programs Update
12
Employer Services
14
MAX Innovations
16
Emily’s Story
17
Chris’ Story
18
Shane’s Story
19
EMPOWER
20
MAX Support
21
Health
22
Assessments Australia
23
MAX Training
24
Troy’s Story
25
Belconnen SEE Story
26
PARTNER 28 MAX Community
29
Australian Network on Disability (AND)
30
MAX Foundation
31
Indigenous Partnerships
32
Other Partnerships
34
Neeru’s Story
35
Bria’s Story
36
Light City Buses’ Story
37
MAKING MAX HAPPEN
38
MAX Culture
39
Supporting our Team
40
MAX Achievers
41
Quality and Compliance
43
Contracts 44 MAX Solutions acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures, and to the elders, both past and present. Cover image: Emily Taylor
2017 Year in Review | 1
Deborah’s Message It is my pleasure to introduce you to the MAX Solutions Annual Review, looking back on the great work carried out across Australia by our team.
We celebrated some significant milestones in 2017. This year marked the halfway point in our jobactive contract, it was the last full year of delivering our current Disability Employment Service, and our training arm commenced delivery of the Youth Jobs PaTH program, the Adult Migrant English Program and the Skills for Education and Employment program. These achievements are not possible without the support of many inspiring people across the country, from our MAX Solutions colleagues to our employer partners and community organisations. The reason we can have an impact on the lives of customers in every corner of Australia is thanks to their expertise, knowledge and passion for the communities they work in. Looking forward, we will see a seismic shift in the way we deliver services. There will be greater flexibility and choice for the people we support. Our customers and their families will have more control over their service to enable better outcomes. But throughout this change, one thing will remain the same; our customers will be at the centre of everything we do. I hope you enjoy reading about our recent achievements and the work we do. We are proud to empower and support people from all walks of life. We believe everyone should have the chance to take every opportunity and we take pride in helping people reach their full potential. It is our mission. Every person. Every chance. Deborah Homewood Managing Director
2 | 2017 Year in Review
About MAX Solutions At MAX Solutions we believe that employment is a fundamental right for every person that underpins self-esteem, well-being and connection to society. As the largest employment provider in Australia, we have over 250 full-time, part-time and outreach sites and employ more than 2,000 staff across the country. Our size and scale allow us to positively impact the lives of more individuals and communities than other providers, while our global foundation, as part of MAXIMUS, provides access to world’s best practice knowledge and processes.
Since 2002, we have delivered employment, health and training contracts for state and federal governments at a local level to benefit hundreds of thousands of Australians. Our experienced staff champion our customers through their entire employment journey with personalised and holistic support through our range of services, so every individual has every chance to achieve success. By connecting and collaboratively working with employers, government and a wide range of community groups, we assist our customers on their journey towards work and an improved life.
Our Vision To be the recognised leader in human services, giving every person every chance
Our Values For us it’s not just a job, it’s a passion to help people change their lives through employment. At MAX Solutions, we work with people from all walks of life and all circumstances, and know the importance of living our values and making a difference – we make MAX happen. We’re active
We’re empowering
We’re driven
We’re responsible
We’re connected
Reconciliation Action Plan We promote respect for Indigenous Australians and their cultures as we believe every person in the workplace and community deserves equity and dignity. Our commitment provides support, understanding, development, opportunity and jobs. We approach this with respect for and consideration of the cultural, social and spiritual beliefs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
2017 Year in Review | 3
Summary of the Year We transform lives and strengthen communities. Our services build independence and enable positive life changes for individuals and families, assist local employers and boost local communities. By working together internally and building relationships with employers, stakeholders and customers, we enable people to create a different future for themselves. We are proud to be part of the communities we serve and operate in every state and territory in Australia.
NORTHERN TERRITORY 13
13
5
3
QUEENSLAND
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
48
41
6
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
42
15
2
NEW SOUTH WALES
152 Full time sites
VICTORIA
106 Outreach sites
29
19
3
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
2
11 Part time sites
TASMANIA 7
4 | 2017 Year in Review
4
15
2
Employment - We delivered:
348,069
Worked in partnership with
Indigenous Australian organisations
people used one of our employment services
Industry-leading conversion to jobs, Youth Jobs PaTH Program
110
30,535 67,855 employers engaged
60+
31.2%
Delivered to Indigenous Australians in over 110 communities
people supported into employment
Support - We empowered:
5,000 8,788 individual training courses conducted
people completed accredited fields of study
21,000
health assessments for individuals conducted
1,500
counselling sessions conducted
Assessments Australia conducted over
9,000 assessments for individuals
Community - We partnered:
31
community-based Indigenous organisations received $100,000 in donations from MAX Solutions
$
49,000
to 14 different charities
donated through the MAX Foundation
2017 Year in Review | 5
DELIVER Above: Christian Anderson
“With MAX Employment, they know us, they know who’s suitable for what job and that makes a big difference. You build up a rapport with your job consultant, they get to know who you are and they’re not going to put you in a situation you find difficult.” Carlene, Employer, Cleveland QLD
6 | 2017 Year in Review
MAX Employment At MAX Employment, we believe there is a job for everyone, and we go the extra mile to deliver employment opportunities.
Key Impacts
As the largest employment provider in Australia, we work with state and federal governments and agencies to deliver services for people from all walks of life and circumstance – whether you are a young Indigenous Australian, someone with a disability, recently migrated or a parent returning to work.
Employment services are much more than just finding jobs – employment fundamentally underpins self-esteem, well-being and connection to society. We empower people to change their lives – enabling our customers to see themselves and their futures differently. With over 250 offices across every state and territory, operating everywhere from metropolitan hubs to remote areas, our business and community connections are the core of our business, allowing us to offer a large range of jobs across multiple industries.
67,855 2,452
people supported into employment
young people using our Disability Employment Services
Over 348,069 people used one of our employment services 2017 Year in Review | 7
2017 marks the half way point in our contract to deliver jobactive services. As a jobactive provider, MAX Employment gives customers the practical support they need to prepare for, secure and stay in work, while taking into account individual circumstances. This year brought continued refinement of jobactive to help more individuals find and keep jobs and 184,748 people around the country were supported in their search for work. A focus on long term outcomes has led to an increase in the number of people sustaining employment for six months or more, rising from 14,708 to 21,783.
Indigenous servicing
We place great value in the ability of our employees when dealing with sensitive cultural issues. 2017 saw the growth of Indigenous mentoring, both in securing and starting work. Regional specific plans were undertaken to engage and support Indigenous customers, utilising local strategies to engage with Indigenous communities.
Compliance
Our staff strive for excellence in efficiency, effectiveness, and quality. A compliance score of 95/100 from the Department of Employment puts us in the highest bracket of performance.
MAX Connect
MAX Connect is a one-of-a-kind platform, unique to MAX Solutions and enhances customer independence in job searching and locating valuable information. Development on our MAX Connect portal continued to introduce updates essential for the delivery of jobactive. The number of jobs available on MAX Connect rose to nearly 125,000 positions, which offer our customers a unique advantage. Complementing MAX Connect was the continued triumph of the Job Success program which assists people to develop softer skills, such as team work and time management. Customers who completed Job Success proved twice as likely to find employment and stay in work longer.
MAX Employment also achieved a 60% increase in five star sites.
Youth Jobs PaTH
The new youth program, PaTH, supports young people in obtaining the skills and work experience required to gain a job. We built strong partnerships between employers and our customers to introduce young people into the working world through internships. To help build employability skills, we link our customers to training from external training organisations, creating a network of support. We have helped over 500 young people into internships, providing experience and exposure to a workplace which they previously would not have had the opportunity to achieve.
The customers we assisted through jobactive in 2017: 26% Live with disability
8 | 2017 Year in Review
11% Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
5% Refugees
18% From a culturally diverse background
25% Mature aged
10% Homeless
12% Ex-offender
Above: Michelle Argus
MAX Employment delivers two Disability Employment Services (DES) contracts: 1. Disability Management Service (DMS) for people requiring short term support 2. Employment Support Service (ESS) for people with permanent disability Disability Employment Services (DES), including employment services, health support and training, were provided to over 29,321 people in 2017, across 42 Employment Service Areas (ESA) nationally. 2018 will see the start of a new DES service across Australia, providing more flexibility and choice for our customers. For MAX Employment this is about working hard to better understand our customers and tailor services to fit their needs. In 2017, our teams proactively spent more time assessing and engaging customers on a regular basis, while our DES Consultative Committees provided a forum for people to share feedback.
Over the past 12 months, we have also worked more closely with employers in order to build stronger partnerships, educate companies on the benefits of hiring people with disability and create disability confident employers. Our Work Support Consultants develop postplacement support plans for customers and employers, spending time onsite with our customers once they’re in work, which assists in boosting long term outcomes. A MAX Employment office is a part of its local community, connecting with local organisations to help our customers access health support, such as GPs, mental health professionals, drug and alcohol support programs, as well as other allied health support services.
9,572
6,152
3,420
DES participants placed in sustainable and meaningful employment
DMS placements (49% still employed at 13 week milestone)
ESS placements (51% still employed at 13 week milestone) 2017 Year in Review | 9
New Programs: Assisting Youth into Employment
Above: Casey Bird
Youth Jobs PaTH
Smart Skilled and Hired Youth Employment
• Youth Jobs PaTH is a flexible new approach to youth employment, designed to support young people aged 15 to 24 years to gain the skills and work experience needed to find and keep a job.
• The NSW Department of Industry’s Smart Skilled and Hired Youth Employment (SSHYE) Program supports young people aged 15 to 24 years and assists local businesses in Western Sydney with employment.
• The program supports employers with hosting internship placements and provides incentives for hiring a young person.
• Since its commencement in September 2017, we have supported 185 young people through the program, connecting them to training to build skills and experience.
Youth Jobs PaTH has three key elements: Prepare – Trial – Hire • In 2017, MAX Solutions implemented the Prepare stage in 10 regions nationally. • The Prepare stage of PaTH Employability Skills Training (EST) provided customers with an insight into the skills and knowledge required for different industries. • The standard of our EST training has been rated as exceptional, achieving more conversions (31.2%) into internships and job placements than any other PaTH EST provider nationally (average 17.3%). • Our customers have engaged with 18 out of a possible 21 jobactive providers to undertake EST, indicating our collaborative approach in working with other providers to achieve results for our customers.
10 | 2017 Year in Review
• 32 participants have found permanent employment to date. • A wide range of support is offered under the program, including resume and application assistance, links to relevant training, mentoring, transport, work experience or volunteer work, and assisting with other challenges such as childcare, homelessness, addiction, health and mental health.
31.2%
Industry-leading conversion to internship or job on PaTH Program
“You can go away at the end of the day and feel a sense of pride and a sense of achievement”. Sam Brown, General Manager, Queensland
2017 Year in Review | 11
Indigenous Programs Update We are dedicated to delivering quality services to all customers, and recognise the unique and often complex needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Acknowledging the Australian Government’s Closing the Gap initiative, we strive to support customers who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and those living in rural and remote areas, by effectively providing employment, health and training support to improve their chances of ongoing employment success. Working in close partnership with more than 60 Indigenous Australian organisations allows us to deliver services in over 110 Indigenous Australian communities.
Vocational Training and Employment Centres (VTEC)
As a VTEC provider, we work with organisations, employers and customers to become embedded in the community and facilitate employment opportunity in the area. During 2017, services were delivered through our VTEC sites in the WA Wheatbelt, Goldfields, Northam and Bunbury regions of Western Australia and Darling Downs, Queensland. The VTEC program provides training and guaranteed job outcomes for Indigenous Australians, with 80% maintaining employment after a six-month period. The long term success of this program is primarily due to the high number of Indigenous mentors and the intensive personal post-placement support.
Community Development Program (CDP) The Community Development Program (CDP) is an employment program providing specialised servicing for customers in rural and remote areas of Australia. CDP allows us to work with Indigenous communities and their leaders, service providers and government to help people find work and to support communities to achieve their development goals.
12 | 2017 Year in Review
In 2017, we assisted 3,400 customers with 426 placed into employment through the CDP program, a result largely due to the number and quality of partnerships developed and the connection to Indigenous communities and their leaders. We are the sole provider in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia. In the Yaaliku and Kambalda/Norseman regions of Western Australia we partner with the Midwest Aboriginal Employment and Economic Development Corporation (MEEDAC), trading as Goldfields Employment and Training Services (GETS).
We work with Aboriginal organisations to support them in the delivery of CDP in their community. In 2017 a new partnership was formed in the Gascoyne CDP region in Western Australia with Aboriginal Biodiversity Conservation (ABC), a not-for-profit Indigenous organisation servicing around 200 customers, the majority of whom are Indigenous.
“Before I started working, I was unorganised and not really motivated. I’ve become much more responsible after being in a workplace.� Hayley Simpson, Indigenous School Based Trainee
Featured: School Based trainees
By partnering with ABC, we deliver community development activities that support Aboriginal culture and the traditional maintenance of land and sea. These activities also build employability skills through work-like conservation activities, including property maintenance, recycling and repurposing, vehicle maintenance and on-country projects including waterway management and collecting traditional plants and seeds through the Indigenous Rangers program.
Menzies Aboriginal Corporation
In the remote Yaaliku region of Western Australia, we partnered with the Menzies Aboriginal Corporation to deliver activities in this small community. Activities included a project on Indigenous servicemen, the refurbishment of the community art gallery, developing a school lunch program for Menzies Community School, and supporting the fit-out of a commercial kitchen at the community centre.
School Based Traineeship Program
In 2017 we continued to deliver the School Based Traineeship Program, providing Indigenous youth with opportunities to pursue a vocation of their choice. Indigenous mentors work with schools to identify Indigenous students with an interest in gaining a qualification in their final years of school. We work with 33 participants who are provided with significant mentoring and employer support to not only gain their qualification but complete their schooling.
2017 Year in Review | 13
Employer Services Employers are an integral part of the MAX Employment community, providing customers across Australia with opportunity. We work with employers of all sizes, from national organisations with multiple sites to local businesses and shops, and take the same personalised approach to our employer clients as we do with individual customers. By partnering with employers we can understand the specifics of a vacancy, recruitment needs and business culture, and match the right people with the right employers to create sustainable outcomes. Our employer partnering approach also encourages and supports the employment of Indigenous Australians through the Indigenous Employment Parity scheme. As a result, more than one in 10 candidates placed in work identify as Indigenous Australian.
National partnership
Our National Partnership Managers work with 39 large employers across Australia on an ongoing basis, supporting and streamlining their recruitment needs, through dedicated human resource, centralised services and technology.
14 | 2017 Year in Review
This model has seen great success with employers like Spotless, where Partnership Managers have been embedded within the organisation to create clarity and a close working relationship; and with employers such as ISS and Compass Group, that work across a number of sectors.
Integrated Services Solutions (ISS)
Throughout the year, we supported ISS with its vision of an inclusive workforce and a commitment to diversity, placing 39 customers in work who identify as Indigenous Australian, 37 with disability, and many more from diverse backgrounds and cultures. ISS’s vision of inclusion and commitment to diversity has strengthened its business and enabled it to become a prominent advocate for diversity within the communities it serves. In 2017, ISS employed 219 of our customers, with 44 percent achieving six months of sustainable employment.
“The MAX team took a genuine interest in our complex business and successfully partnered with our teams to understand our needs. All MAX Solutions employees involved in this project have presented the highest level of professionalism particularly when assisting our managers to increase their disability confidence.” Natasha Caflisch, Diversity Projects Co-ordinator, Compass Group Left: Employer Brian Terry with new staff member Carlene Kirkman and Consultant Erin Riseley
Voyages
Voyages employed 181 Indigenous customers in 2017, through the collaboration of 34 different providers. We added value to Voyages’ employer service with modular additions, removing administrative obstacles through our centralised support teams in Brisbane. This enabled us to focus on important stages in the recruitment and employment process, including EAP and preemployment medicals.
The right technology and support
Our eight Employer Business Centres service over 150 businesses across Australia and work closely with our employment sites to find candidates for employer vacancies. Our Employer Services team partners with employers to truly understand the positions that need to be filled and the requirements of the individual roles, helping us find the right people for the right jobs. This year we have worked harder to remove the administrative aspects of wage subsidies and employment fund payments, streamlining the process through integrated systems and centralising our employer support, to ensure our clients can focus on ensuring the smooth running of their business and the positive induction of their new employees.
Through innovation in technology, our MAX Connect website matches individuals with vacancies based on person job fit profiles that understand their background and interests, ensuring the right opportunities are immediately accessible.
Local engagement
As well as large scale employers, we work with thousands of independent and community based businesses. These employers are an important cog in the wheel of the communities we’re part of and we work hard to make sure we understand the unique aspects and considerations of each business. By working closely, building strong relationships and understanding their needs, we’re able to find new local opportunities for employment, strengthening the economy of the community.
30,535
employers engaged
2017 Year in Review | 15
MAX Innovations At MAX Solutions, we are proactive and always striving to be more, do more and achieve more for our partners and customers. We’re committed to providing the best customer service possible, and actively seek ways to overcome challenges to get the job done.
• 2017 saw continued investment in technology to streamline processes and improve customer service. »» MAX Power intranet launched to provide one connected and centralised internal communication portal. »» Over three million documents were migrated to a new Electronic Document and Management System (EDRMS) to allow improved access and document management. »» New team sites were built to streamline information sourcing. »» MAX Connect was updated to include employer notes, easier to manage activities, events and employment for more effective relationship building. »» The entire organisation upgraded to Office365 for more accurate document keeping, version control and increased security, while encouraging team collaboration. • Within training, an online learning platform was developed to simplify management of student enrolments, and the platform for students to access assigned modules and assessment was updated. Since launch in April, 540 students have been successfully enrolled through this platform.
• A number of process improvements were undertaken to enhance systems and outcomes. »» The claims system was fully automated to mitigate risk of duplication or error. »» The implementation of IT support system ‘Sherwell’ has provided claims management with timely reporting and allows employers to streamline applications for wage subsidies. »» Automated text messages to customers, who have expressed interest in specific positions, were introduced as an alert to apply and attend interviews. This has led to improved placements and retention.
16 | 2017 Year in Review
Emily’s Story
For 24 year old Emily, securing and keeping a steady job proved difficult while managing her stress and anxiety levels.
Above: Emily Taylor
Emily received help through our Disability Employment Service and has now been in a gardening job she loves for nearly 10 months. She says that she not only likes the money that comes with her job at the SW1 gardens in South Brisbane, but has managed to improve her time management skills.
Using Emily’s interests, Karissa called around to different employers to try and find suitable roles.“It was great because Emily already knew how to sell herself to employers, she told me, ‘I’ve never missed a day of school in five years.’ She was able to demonstrate how reliable she was.”
“I’m better at tidying up after myself after breakfast. I like the money I get from work, I can spoil Mum occasionally now. I’m better at remembering things now, like not leaving batteries out in the rain,” she said.
It wasn’t always smooth sailing for Emily, who has a particularly hard time each September and around Christmas time.“I lost a parent in 2012 and lost my dog, and I lost a job, all in September, so that’s a bad month for me.”
Emily came to our office in Stones Corner, Brisbane with a Certificate III in Horticulture and a love for the outdoors and being in the water.
But now, Emily’s future is looking leafy! Karissa says she can’t believe the change in Emily. “Now when I call her she’s so much more confident, we’ve seen a real improvement in her independence.”
“I don’t like sitting still,” she said.“I like being outdoors, doing things in the garden, blowing leaves, getting rubbish out of the gardens and stuff like that.”
Emily has some advice for other young job seekers.“Just try your hardest and something will come.”
Health Services Officer Molly and Consultant Karissa worked closely with Emily, driving her to interviews and staying in contact to try and reduce her stress levels.
2017 Year in Review | 17
Chris’ Story
After landing a permanent role at the magnificent Voyages Ayers Rock Resort, 58 year old Chris has found a completely different life for himself with Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia.
The ex-labourer was unemployed for seven years after arthritis in his knee left him unable to meet the physical requirements of work. When his consultant Leya first met Chris over five years ago, his confidence in changing careers was low. “At first Chris was hesitant to apply with Voyages as he had been unemployed for such a long time,” Leya said. “But I organised the phone interview which he passed with flying colours.” It wasn’t long before Chris was flying over to Uluru, where he felt an immediate connection to the land and people. “When I first walked off the plane on my first visit to Uluru, I was overcome by emotions as I had never felt spiritually connected to my Indigenous side until that very moment,” Chris said. After his first day, Chris knew in his heart that Uluru was where he wanted to be. He made a commitment to himself that he would do whatever it took to start work. But then came further setbacks.
18 | 2017 Year in Review
Above: Voyages Hotel
During a pre-employment medical check at the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS), Chris was diagnosed with extremely high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. Even after four days in hospital, Chris remained in good spirits, with ATSICHS working with Chris to help him manage his diabetes. It was this support and the on-going support of Leya that allowed Chris to get the all clear to relocate to Uluru in July 2017 and begin permanent full-time work with Voyages. Chris’s spiritual journey has just begun, surrounded by those who no longer call him Chris, but instead refer to him respectfully as ‘Uncle’. “Thank you MAX Employment, you have changed my life,” were Chris’ parting words.
Shane’s Story
Riverview local Shane worked 27 years as a brick layer but 11 years ago collapsed while working on site. This is Shane’s story.
Above: Shane Morell
“I knew I had arthritis but didn’t know it was that bad. Apparently, I had a piece of bone loose in my hip and every time I moved it would hit a nerve and I’d just fall over. It took six years to get surgery, but once my leg was realigned it caused arthritis in my lumbar. After spending seven months at the hospital in physio, I was referred to the spinal unit and a spinal block recommended. I said no as there was a 50% chance I’d never walk again. Since then I’ve got heavy pain management for the rest of my life. The medication wears off at 5.30pm and I’m in a lot of pain every night.” With the help of consultant Tusi, Shane was able to secure a job manufacturing fishing rods at Alvey Reels Australia. “I jumped at this chance. This was plunging into the deep end, something I had no idea of how it worked. But I picked it up pretty quick, though the first couple of weeks were pretty hard. I’d had 11 years of doing nothing with my body. The first few days, the pain was incredible, but physio and going to bed early, getting as much sleep as I could, helped. I’m on a constant five all day for pain, but by concentrating on what you’re doing, the pain will feel like a two. It’s good to take your mind off the pain.”
Without the support from Tusi and the team, Shane doesn’t know how he would have kept going. “You get to a point where you can only stay positive for so long. The first few years I was driving around dropping in cards everywhere to get a job. I was getting depressed and frustrated. I had no money, no nothing. MAX Employment has been a fantastic support. And they’ve helped me get work boots, shirts and pants.” Although it was difficult for Shane to take on full-time work after so many years of inactivity, he has persevered. “I’m loving it. For someone like me, I’m a bit old school, and I want to work. I’ve fitted in pretty well. The biggest thing, the one thing that really blew me away the other day, is that now I can actually relax a bit at the shops and know that I’ve got a couple of dollars in my pocket.” Shane hopes to inspire others through his journey. “Don’t give up because it gets depressing. You’ve got to keep going, if you don’t want to do it, it’ll never happen.”
2017 Year in Review | 19
EMPOWER Above: Kendrick Schiro-Cook
105 professionals on our health team
20 | 2017 Year in Review
“MAX Support has been g me stay positive. I like hav someone who actually say doing?’ They were constan for me and called me ever up that I might be interest Ben, Customer, Cleveland QLD
MAX Support By providing support in health and training, we encourage every individual to see a better future, empowering them to take advantage of opportunities. We provide personalised advice, training and health services to ensure that an individual is able to overcome challenges in their lives to become ready to work. Our support continues throughout transition into employment and beyond.
governments, where we identify necessary changes in policy, create solutions for complex cases and offer a source of independent advice for families and individuals.
MAX Training
Health
To help people achieve their ambitions in employment, our training team enable customers to see their futures differently, to stand independently and participate in community.
Our Health Support Officers come from a broad range of professional backgrounds, including registered psychologists, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists, social workers and rehabilitation counsellors, which ensures we have the expertise and capacity to support the needs of our customers.
As a registered training organisation (RTO), we provide a wide variety of nationally recognised courses and training programs in a range of industries, including hospitality, retail and business, to ensure the appropriate skills are in place so each individual is ready for work.
great. They really helped ving someone to talk to, ys ‘Hello, how are you ntly looking out for jobs ry time something came ted in.�
Key Impacts
Our subsidiary company, Assessments Australia, provides additional support to ensure the stability of an individual’s employment. Our expertise in providing assessments can be seen in our collaboration and partnership with state
Through employability skills training and short courses that help people with skills such as digital literacy, our customers can find new confidence in their abilities and find new pathways to work.
11,818
undertook our training courses
21,000
health assessments for individuals
5,000
students completed accredited fields of study in 2017
100+
qualified VET trainers
2017 Year in Review | 21
Above: Health Services Officer Samuel Lam with Tammy-Jo Sheehan and new managers at The Collection House
Health Our health support team play a crucial role in supporting our customers. Our 105 Health Services Officers represent a wide range of allied health specialties and work closely with the employment team to ensure customers are job ready and to provide ongoing assistance post placement. In 2017, we conducted more than 21,000 health assessments and over 2,250 group health sessions. Health assessments are critical in understanding individual needs and addressing issues from the very beginning, to maximise employment sustainability. Services may include occupational therapy, career counselling or vocational rehabilitation supporting individuals to manage vulnerabilities which may be triggered in the workplace. For those requiring more long term or complex
support, we assist through pre-employment screenings, in-work support planning and functional capacity evaluations. Adjustments to the workplace may also be necessary to enable an individual to perform their role. Our health team work with employers to understand the role and potential restrictions for an individual to be able to undertake their duties. We also conduct workplace adjustments, including purchase of specialist equipment, such as glasses, safety boots, eye and face protection and customised seating. Our work doesn’t stop once people find jobs. To maintain the safety and wellbeing of our customers, we continue to stay connected, proactively providing in-work support, ongoing counselling and check-ins.
1,200
90
1,500
staff received Minimising Aggression and Suicide Prevention training
families with complex or high care needs supported since 2012
counselling sessions conducted
22 | 2017 Year in Review
Assessments Australia Assessments Australia is a MAX Solutions company specialising in the provision of tailored support planning and assessment services, with a high level of expertise in disability and child welfare services. Assessments Australia continually works with schools, government and communities to improve and deliver quality services. The organisation is regularly consulted by government when revising or designing new processes and improvements for complex assessment services. With an extensive network of over 300 psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers, nurses and other specialists, Assessments Australia provides customers with disability assessments for students in schools, disability personal needs
assessments, child welfare assessments, support planning for people with disability and supported wage assessments. In 2017 Assessments Australia has successfully extended its existing contracts with the Catholic Education Commission of Victoria to provide appraisal services for applications to the Students with Disability Program as well as its contract with Department of Education and Training in Victoria to deliver the Program for Students with Disabilities Assessment Services. In addition, in 2017 Assessments Australia was successful in securing a contract to provide relative and kinship care assessment service for the department of Child Protection SA.
Assessments Australia delivers three core services: Students with Disability Program (PSD), Victoria • This program determines the needs of students with disabilities who attend regular and specialist schools. Students referred for assessment either have an intellectual disability or a severe language disorder with critical educational needs. • Assessments Australia provides qualified and fully registered psychologists and speech pathologists and conducted over 6,700 assessments in 2017.
Child Welfare Assessments • Through a nation-wide team of child welfare assessment specialists, the Child Welfare program undertakes work for various Government and Non-Government organisations throughout Australia. We complete capacity based assessments and training including assessments of Relatives or Kin, Guardians and foster carers. We provide carer training, carer reviews and contact assessments as well as other customised assessments based on the need of the organisation. • Over the course of 12 months, a highly specialised workforce has been established to support the growing demand for child protection services. • Psychologists and social workers with extensive experience work within the community to facilitate child placements.
Disability Support Planning and Assessments (DSP) • A large range of complex disability support planning services are provided to assist customers with significant disabilities maintain a high quality of life and help with transition into the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
2017 Year in Review | 23
MAX Training A Registered Training Organisation (RTO) since 2002, MAX Training delivers solutions for customers and business across every Australian state and territory. Our training team has experienced rapid growth over the last 12 months with the addition of the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) and Skills for Employment and Education (SEE) as well as an increase in customers across all Vocational and Educational Training courses. Our vocational training includes courses from multiple industries including Business, Health Services, Hospitality and Retail. There are over 100 VET trainers operating across the country delivering high quality accredited training ranging from Certificate I and other entry level courses through to Diploma certificates. For training to be successful it is about understanding the needs of our customers. We worked with 464 students who didn’t have education above Year 8, with 208 of those never having the opportunity to attend school. In our English language courses, our customers come from a broad range of backgrounds, speaking 122 different languages.
5,000
people completed accredited fields of study
17,521
people completed accredited units of study
1,000
students enrolled in the AMEP and SEE courses
Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) The AMEP program teaches functional English language, literacy and numeracy skills to new migrants and humanitarian entrants, enabling them to participate in Australian community and work life. We deliver the program in four regions across Australia in partnership with Navitas English, the largest provider of English language training in Australia.
Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) MAX Training delivers SEE in 14 regions across Australia, embedding literacy and numeracy in meaningful, real-world settings. The program provides English language, numeracy and digital literacy training within our vocational training courses for people accessing Australian Government income support.
Above: Training in progress
24 | 2017 Year in Review
Troy’s Story
Born with a degenerative condition of the front of the eyes, Troy had undergone numerous cornea surgeries and can still only see out of one eye.
Above: Troy McConnell
Unemployed for a number of years, 25 year old Troy was finding it hard to find a role he liked. “I was really wanting to go into a labouring job… I like working with my hands,” he said. Erin was the consultant who helped Troy purchase specialist glasses and supported him in obtaining a forklift ticket – allowing him to gain full-time employment in Brisbane. Troy undertook Block 1 of Employability Skills Training under the Prepare, Trial, Hire (PaTH) program, before commencing a four week internship at Solomons to determine if he would be the right fit for the job. “For the internship I had Troy undertake basic yard work, picking up products, moving them and wrapping them. That way I could assess his attitude, and how keen he was.” Solomons’ Production Manager, Darrin Robinson said. Darrin was thoroughly impressed with Troy’s work ethic. “Troy’s attitude is a good thing. He’s always happy to be here and he’s keen to be working.”
As a production manager in a small, seasonal industry, Darrin understands the benefits of training employees across various aspects of the business. “We have a small crew and keep them multi-skilled so we can move them around. Just last week Troy was out on site helping the fitters. He’s happy to do anything.” Darrin worked with Erin to make sure they were clear on what would make the perfect candidate. “I wanted to make sure Erin knew what we wanted here at Solomons. What skills are must-haves and what are nice-to-haves.” The right training and health supports ensured that Troy had the opportunity to go forward for the position, whilst Erin made sure Darrin had all the information he needed. “All the information about the PaTH internship from MAX Support was really good. They were really up front and honest when they put Troy forward. They offered to do all the background checks and references for me,” Darrin said. For Erin, success is seeing Troy empowered to take a step in a new direction. “I knew he’d fit in well there because he’s quite creative. He so much happier now he’s got his glasses and this job.” 2017 Year in Review | 25
Thanks to Canberra National Zoo and MAX Trainer James Humphreys, 14 Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) participants went to the zoo!
Featured: SEE students
The SEE program helps individuals improve poor reading, writing and numeracy skills, to progress into full time employment. Many SEE students are refugees or migrants from wartorn countries who are not able to go back home. MAX Support uses experiential learning activities and embeds literacy and numeracy activities in a setting which is meaningful to the students. The National Zoo not only offered these learning opportunities, but also featured attractions that for many of the participants, reminded them of home. Belconnen SEE student, Pipi, migrated to Australia from Thailand just over a year ago. Pipi said he never had the opportunity to visit a zoo before.
SEE Trainer James Humphreys said the National Zoo and the animals provided the perfect opportunity for the students to brush up on their English words and phrases. “They called out each of the animals, then wrote down the name of the animal and described their behaviours.” James was astounded by the generosity and coming together of the students who are from such culturally diverse backgrounds. “The students had brought their own lunches and shared them together. It was completely unexpected but amazing to see lunches from all their different backgrounds. They are such a generous group.”
“We are very lucky,” he said.“It was very amazing because I’d never been to the zoo. I saw a lot of animals; giraffes, otters, emus and kangaroos.” Pipi was proud to recall animal facts he learned at the zoo. “I learned that giraffes only sleep for between two minutes and two hours,” he explained. “Otters are very clever and very fast, they swim under water up to 8km/hr.”
Above: SEE student at the Zoo. 26 | 2017 Year in Review
“I know that the customers I work with feel more confident and comfortable coming to me because they know I’m also Aboriginal, there’s that automatic connection and relatability to what they’re going through.” Simone Briggs, Indigenous Mentor, Auburn, NSW
2017 Year in Review | 27
PARTNER “The $5,000 MAX Foundation donation to our fruit and vegie program ensures we can continue to grow the program in response to the escalating need for healthy produce for the state’s most marginalised.” Leigh Royans, Founder, Foodbank South Australia
28 | 2017 Year in Review
MAX Community Whilst we provide a holistic support service, our customers’ lives are further enhanced by the quality of the partnerships we develop within the communities we serve. We connect and work collaboratively with a wide range of community groups that offer specialised areas of support and knowledge, to provide tailored and individualised assistance. Our long term partnerships with organisations in our local communities enable positive outcomes through the connection of customers, employers and specialised support services to transform lives and strengthen communities.
We value partnerships that enable others to achieve their ambitions, raise awareness and bring opportunity. By supporting local organisations, we’re able to realise our goal of giving every person every chance. Our partnerships with state governments enable us to bring localised and regionally specific services that help communities. By connecting individuals to local support, people are empowered to overcome obstacles. This year, we donated $100,000 to community-based Indigenous organisations, demonstrating the commitment of our staff to the communities in which they live and work.
Key Impacts
This work extends through our charitable arm, the MAX Foundation, which is funded through the donations of our staff and matched dollar for dollar by the organisation.
Partnered with 31 regional Indigenous organisations Left: SEE training in progress
$100,000 donated by MAX Solutions to community-based Indigenous organisations across all states
$49,000 donated through the MAX Foundation to 14 different charities
2017 Year in Review | 29
Above: Brisbane Youth Service donation
Australian Network on Disability (AND) In 2017 we were proud to be involved in a unique program to enhance labour force participation rates for people with disability. The High Growth Jobs, Talented Candidates (HGJTC) program matches people with disability to employers looking to fill roles in high growth industries. Delivered through the Australian Network on Disability (AND), the program offers a range of innovative products, training and programs to help employers welcome people with disability across all aspects of their business. As a national, member-based, for-purpose organisation, AND supports employers to advance the inclusion of people with disability in business. The project involved over 100 AND employer members, with employers who believe in diversity equal opportunity being matched with Disability Employment Services providers including MAX Employment.
30 | 2017 Year in Review
During the project, we were able to facilitate 78 customers being hired by the organisation. We partnered with Compass Group (awarded Disability Employer of the Year in 2017 for their commitment of hiring 20 people with disability through the HGJTC program) to understand their requirements and provide suitable candidates. During the project, we were able to facilitate 78 MAX customers being hired by the organisation. MAX Solutions is committed to partnering with employers who share our vision of diversity and inclusion, and offering holistic services rather than purely recruitment. Building and maintaining strong relationships with key national employers, such as Compass Group, demonstrates that candidates with disability can be valuable members of the team.
MAX Foundation Over the past 12 months, almost $50,000 has been raised for charities around Australia through the charitable giving initiative MAX Foundation. Employees contribute to the Foundation through events and initiatives, community BBQs and even a MAX Solutions Christmas wishing tree. In September 2017, we selected 14 grassroots organisations to each receive up to $5,000 as part of the annual MAX Foundation grant donations. MAX Foundation carefully selects grant recipients who have the expertise and capability to assist those in need. Nationally, we have donated to charities supporting people struggling with addiction, mental health issues, homelessness, youth suicide, domestic violence and poverty.
Above: Pivot Support Services donation
Supporting Meals on Wheels Local Brisbane charity Meals on Wheels was one of the many deserving recipients of a MAX Foundation grant in 2017. Charity Manager, Cathy, said the grant would go a long way to helping their cause. “If we can provide nutritious meals, our clients can spend money on other resources such as clothes and healthcare,” Cathy said. Meals on Wheels volunteer, Allen, said their service also provides important social contact. Above: MAX Solutions donates to Meals on Wheels
“Without the generosity of the volunteers and financial support like this from MAX Solutions, Meals on Wheels would not be able to meet the diverse needs of our community.”
“For many of the people we serve, we might be the only face they see that day,” Allen explained. Meals on Wheels enlists the help of volunteers to deliver healthy meals to people’s homes, and provides regular contact to those who may be socially isolated.
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Indigenous Partnerships
Above: Mt Margaret students as part of Moorambilla Voices
We operate in three remote CDP regions around Australia (Yaaliku, Gascoyne and Kambalda). The CDP program supports remote Indigenous communities through structured activities, training and support to find and stay in work.
let your crop rot’ address food waste in local plantations. The program helps plantations with management of insects, pests and fungal diseases, and allows individuals to support their families and local food banks with fresh fruit and vegetables.
In 2017, we supported 398 people to move into work, including many from very remote areas.
In the Kambalda/Norseman region, we partner with Teen Challenge, an internationally recognised residential rehabilitation service that supports the needs of males and females over the age of 16. It is one of the largest and most effective substance abuse recovery programs in WA. The program also offers academic and vocational training to support their rehabilitation.
Our approach is based on close partnerships with local Aboriginal organisations and communities. In two of our CDP regions, we operate as Goldfields Employment and Training Services (GETS) in a joint venture with Midwest Employment and Economic Development Corporation (MEEDAC), a registered Indigenous organisation. In the Gascoyne region, MAX Solutions partners with Aboriginal Biodiversity Conservation (ABC), a not-for-profit Indigenous organisation, to deliver a range of on-country, cultural and agriculture based activities. The partnership with ABC provides Ranger training opportunities in land and sea management for up to 170 participants in Carnarvon. Carnarvon provides opportunities to learn about growing, managing and exporting food domestically and internationally. Innovative campaigns such as ‘Don’t 32 | 2017 Year in Review
Moorambilla Voices
In the Yaaliku region of Western Australia, we partnered with the highly awarded Moorambilla Voices to bring the music education program to this very remote part of Australia. With a strong focus on school attendance and participation, and the role of the family and community, Moorambilla’s program was the perfect fit for a region that has faced incredible hardship. The feedback from individuals, community and schools is that children are happier, turning up and being more engaged at school.
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia is owned by the Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC) and manages tourism and resorts on their behalf. With a strong commitment to social responsibility,
all profits from business activities go towards supporting Indigenous training and employment across Australia. We brokered 181 Indigenous placements with Voyages Tourism in 2017.
Pathways Exhibition
Pathways, exhibited at NSW Parliament Fountain Court Gallery from 2 – 24 November 2017, was a group exhibition by 21 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists affected by Australia’s criminal justice system. Indigenous prisoners comprise almost one third of the Australian prison population and rehabilitation programs that acknowledge language, culture and traditions are the most effective at improving mental health and reducing the chances of re-offending.
Above: Rosemary Connors, Cultural Liaison Officer at Borallon Training and Correctional Centre
Pathways was kindly supported by the Hon. Don Harwin MLC, NSW Minister for the Arts.
Supporting rehabilitation
Working across prison and non-prison environments, MAX Community co-ordinates and connects prisoners to employment services, providing support to assist offenders back into the workforce. We collaborate with correctional centre and arts program partners to provide support and opportunity to those incarcerated in building their future and reconnecting with their culture through art. These programs are:
Above: Stuart Peters, Rosemary Connors and Kent Morris
• Borallon Training and Correctional Centre, Queensland • Five Bridges Healing Through the Arts Program, Queensland • The Torch Indigenous Arts in Prison and Community Program, Victoria • Insider Art (a joint initiative between Department of Corrective Services and Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison), Western Australia
Uncle Charlie Chambers, a prominent and internationally renowned Aboriginal Traditional Artist, delivers the arts programs to prisoners in the Borallon Training Correctional Centre.
Above: Sydney staff at the Pathways Exhibition
2017 Year in Review | 33
Other partnerships Australian Network on Disability (AND) Disability Confident Recruiter At MAX Solutions, we actively promote diversity and support the employment of people with disability when recruiting. Through our partnership with the Australian Network on Disability (AND), we are part of the Disability Confident Recruiter (DCR) Program allowing our teams to access tools and resources which help us improve our ability to recruit talented people with disability.
In early 2018 MAX Solutions will be one of the first organisations in Australia to achieve DCR status.
DCR supports our capability to identify and address barriers which may inadvertently prevent applicants with disability applying for roles, and assists recruitment from the entire talent pool by enabling skilled job seekers with disability to apply for jobs on a level playing field.
ACT Chief Minister Inclusion Awards As the the principal partner of the ACT Chief Minister Inclusion Awards for the past 13 years, we donate $20,000 annually to support the outstanding inclusive work being done in the ACT community. Each year the award recognises individuals, organisations and businesses working to create a community that supports people with disability. Since 2004, we have donated a total of $255,000 to the awards. Support of these key awards allows us to proactively encourage and educate employers to think about their businesses differently, challenge their preconceptions, and become confident in supporting people with a disability.
Above: Toowoomba customers celebrating AccessAbility Day with Toowoomba Mayor Paul Antonio
AccessAbility Day The AccessAbility day pilot program, which aimed to bring people with disability and employers together, ran from 4 – 8 December 2017, supported by the Department of Social Services Job Access. More than 240 employers applied to host over 440 people with disability. Employers were able to connect with a person with disability and see their potential in their workplace, while people with disability had the opportunity to experience a workplace. Trials were conducted in Gosford, New South Wales; and Toowoomba, Woodridge and Browns Plains in Queensland; Elizabeth in South Australia and Hobart in Tasmania where we partnered with local businesses including Compass Group, Arafmi, Telstra, Primitivo and Coles, Toowoomba.
34 | 2017 Year in Review
Neeru’s Story
Brisbane local Neeru, 30, jumped at the chance to be a part of the recent Department of Social Services (DSS) pilot program AccessAbility Day.
Above: Neeru Kumar
For Neeru, who has been unemployed for over two years, AccessAbility Day provided the chance to gain more experience in her chosen field of hospitality, working as a barista in the cafeteria of Sullivan and Nicolaides Bowen Hills. “I really want to be a barista but I need more experience. Today was helpful in getting work experience,” Neeru said. Neeru not only learnt valuable skills to add to her resume, but also provided much needed assistance to a busy workplace. “I wanted to help out and encourage others to work.” After battling her own mental health issues, Neeru is an advocate for perseverance. “I’d definitely encourage others to get more work experience. Keep applying, get some experience and volunteer and invest in training,” she said.
“Neeru is involved in temperature monitoring, making coffee, doing the dishes, getting on the till. I wanted her to get a feel for the place and the environment,” he said. “She’s very out-going and engaging in conversation with the staff. She likes to be involved.” Compass Group was named 2017 National Disability Employer of the Year for its outstanding achievement in improving the lives of Australians with disability. In 2017 Compass employed 77 people who identified as having a disability. “We have goals to help people,” Habib said. “There’s no difference if those people have disability or not. It’s about a fair go and making sure that everything is equal at the end of the day.”
Compass Group Manager, Habib Golpayegani, oversees operation of the cafeteria at Sullivan and Nicolaides and hosted Neeru’s placement.
2017 Year in Review | 35
School Based Trainee Program student Bria won both the North Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year award and the North Queensland School Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year award from Queensland Training.
Above: Bria Cusack
Thanks to her Certificate II, Bria was able to secure her current traineeship with Project Outback, where she is gaining practical hands-on experience in dental health at the Townsville Aboriginal and Islanders Health Services (TAIHS) Clinic in Garbutt, North Queensland. Seed Foundation Pathways Officer Rachel said she is not surprised at Bria’s achievements. “Bria is very motivated and passionate about dental health, helping her community, and giving back to her community. She’s become so much more confident being around patients all the time and having to liaise with management,” Rachel said.
36 | 2017 Year in Review
Thanks to the support of the Seed Foundation, Bria is now pursuing a career in dentistry. “I was exposed to many different areas of health and I realised that dentistry was where I wanted to be,” she said. Bria said she is proud of her Aboriginal heritage and grateful for the opportunity to work in an industry that benefits the health and wellbeing of Indigenous people. So what’s next for Bria? After completing her Certificate III, Bria said she wants to attend Griffith University and become a fully qualified dentist.
Over 100 customers from South Australia recently participated in the six week work-ready Structured Training and Employment Project (STEP). The STEP course saw participants undertake accredited training with core units that focused on literacy and numeracy skills, customer service, conflict and fatigue management, Occupational Health and Safety and structured driving training. Jeff Nicholls, trainer at Light City Buses saw the participants through the last four weeks of the course where he monitored their driving ability. “When you only have a car licence, driving a bus is very difficult to learn. From where the participants started, to the end of the four weeks, they were completely different people,” he said.
MAX Solutions South Australia General Manager, Alex Zaikis, said being nominated for this award speaks volumes about the training program and its success. “Over 100 customers have been trained through this structured program which benefits customers, and the SA Community. We’re very proud to be shortlisted as a finalist,” he commented. STEP is a government funded project that provides flexible funding to eligible employers, including structured and accredited training, to help employers take on Indigenous Australians in long-term jobs.
Liz Silk, Client Relationship Manager at Time Education and Training said the customers were thrilled to be part of the program. “They were so excited to get behind the wheel. Their faces lit up realising what they had achieved.” Every participant who graduated from the course is now permanently employed as a bus driver for Broadspectrum Light City Buses. This is a major achievement for Time Education and Training, Broadspectrum Light City Buses, MAX Employment and Workskil Australia, with the STEP program becoming a finalist for the SA Training Awards the Industry Collaboration.
Above: SA students graduate from STEP Program Bus Driving Course
2017 Year in Review | 37
MAKING MAX HAPPEN “What a privilege to work for MAX Solutions and be able to help engage, support and care for our clients, in what is probably their time of greatest need.” Gary Hanes, Deputy State Manager, NSW
38 | 2017 Year in Review
MAX Culture At MAX Solutions, we are driven by a common motivation to improve the lives of those we serve. We engage with every part of the community and believe every person has the right to access opportunity and live with dignity, purpose and independence.
Our Leaders
We take pride in our commitment to enable positive life change for our customers and bring experience, authenticity and passion to work every day.
The team has extensive experience in the human services sector with specialist expertise in program management and compliance, social policy development, change management, workforce development, government relations, service delivery and human resources.
We do things differently, actively supporting equality and diversity in all aspects of our business. We strive to be more and do more, connect more and go the extra mile to support our customers.
Led by Managing Director, Deborah Homewood, the nine strong executive team at MAX Solutions is passionate about meeting the needs of customers and the community.
We make a difference. We make MAX happen.
71%
Above: Deborah Homewood, Managing Director; Darren Hooper, Chief Operating Officer; Richard Spurrell, Executive General Manager Quality, Performance and Ethics; Karen Massier, Executive General Manager of Strategy; Cameron Taylor, Executive General Manager of Finance; Jason Shield, Executive General Manager of Training; Fiona Lamb, Director of Operations; Joanne Ryan, Director of Human Resources; Adam Heilbron, Director of Information Technology
of staff are satisfied and engaged with workplace culture (5% above the Australian national average)*
Above: MAX Employment staff and customer in Sydney office * SOURCE: MAX Solutions 2017 Employee Engagement survey
2017 Year in Review | 39
Above: Southeast Queensland trainers
Supporting our team We are proud of our passionately dedicated teams across the country, who work tirelessly to change the lives of every individual who comes through our doors. It takes constant communication, proactive awareness and continued professional development to make sure we have a connected, knowledgeable and compassionate team.
Diversity
As a human services business, the benefits of a diverse workforce are immeasurable and we are committed to maintaining diversity in our own recruitment process. Our team is supported by a dedicated Ambassador for Disability, Gerrard Gossens. A three time Paralympian representing Australia, Gerrard has climbed Everest, taken part in Dancing with the Stars, competed in six world championships, owns a chocolate shop and lives by the philosophy of success being a journey, not a destination. We continue to develop awareness and understanding of Indigenous communities in our team through our community partnerships and our Indigenous mentoring program, supported by celebrated musician, artist and mentor Jeremy Donovan. 40 | 2017 Year in Review
Learning & Development (L&D)
At MAX Solutions, we believe in the ongoing development of all staff and provide a wide range of learning opportunities at all levels of our business across a variety of topics. We are committed to developing the capabilities of individuals, identifying our own talent and future leaders and providing our team with opportunities to develop professionally including completion of Certificate IV. Our dedicated L&D partners work continuously to make sure we can identify areas of learning and ensure delivery is presented in a varied and engaging way using a range of learning modes, such as site training sessions, online learning and group training days.
66 5,000
modules of online training
e-learning training courses undertaken by staff
MAX Achievers The 2017 #WeAreMAX Awards recognised our colleagues who have inspired us, and who go above and beyond to make a remarkable difference in the lives of so many. On November 10, staff from every corner of the country came together at Queensland’s Movie World to celebrate MAX Solution’s night of nights. All award finalists enjoyed a one day leadership development session prior to the ceremony which featured guest speakers Rachael Robertson, Gerrard Gosens and our brand agency DAIS.
Above: Starfish Award winner – David Irvine
Award Recipients #IamMAX Living Our Values Award
Betty Ladd, Consultant, Burnie
Starfish Award
David Irvine, General Manager Quality and Ethics
Corporate Services Award
Adnan Zakir, Performance Analyst, National Support Centre
Support Services Award
Danielle McCracken, Trainer, National Operations Centre
Indigenous Programs Award
Simonne Briggs, Indigenous Mentor, Auburn
AA, Health and Specialists Award
Philip Walker, Health Services Officer, Taylors Lakes
Claire Cotton Award (Disability Employment Services Placement Consultant of the Year)
Anushia Criddle, Consultant, Palm Beach
Placement Consultant of the Year: jobactive
Shilpa Dhole, Consultant, Brunswick
Employer of the Year
Spotless
Employer Business Centre of the Year
South East Victoria
Most Improved Site of the Year
Gascoyne, WA
Large Site of the Year
Moorabbin, VIC
Small / Medium Site of the Year
Lakemba, NSW
2017 Year in Review | 41
“I feel proud to come to work. I feel proud to wear my purple polo on a Friday.” Erin Carey, National Partnerships Manager
42 | 2017 Year in Review
Quality and Compliance
Above: Staff from the National Client Services Team
• Since 2003, MAX Solutions has been accredited externally under Quality Assurance accreditation with ISO9001: 2008. In 2018, we will transition to the new standard of ISO9001: 2015.
• Our 24/7 probity and ethics hotline and email service have continued to provide employees with prompt responses to enquiries, and a process for raising compliance issues with management.
• We are proud to have held National Standards for Disability Services accreditation for over a decade.
• A probity officer with a direct reporting line to MAXIMUS in the United States continues to provide monthly reports on our operations.
• MAX Solutions has successfully maintained Quality Assurance Framework accreditation and will complete a full certification audit in early 2018.
Over the past 12 months • 30 staff have been based nationally in quality and centralised claiming roles. • The team has continued to work closely with respective departments and their various program assurance and monitoring visit activities. • 325 internal compliance and quality assurance audits were completed, including planned and unplanned site visits and follow-up meetings. 2017 Year in Review | 43
Contracts Government Contracts During 2017, MAX delivered a wide range of programs under various contracts for state and federal government to job seekers and employees across Australia.
Australian Government Contracts Program
Description
jobactive
Supporting customers and employers with sustainable employment
Disability Employment Service (DES) – Employment Support Service (ESS)
For people with permanent disability who need ongoing support
Disability Employment Service (DES) – Disability Management Service (DMS)
For people with disability, injury or health conditions who need short-term support to find and keep employment
Work For The Dole (WfD)
Providing practical hands-on experience to customers in partnership with community organisations
Youth Jobs PaTH
With three elements - Prepare, Trial, and Hire, PaTH supports young people to gain the skills and work experience they need to obtain and keep a job. It also supports employers to host internship placements.
Jobs, Land and Economy Program (JLEP)
Creating more opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through a community specific approach
National Panel of Assessors
Providing a range of assessment services to assist with the needs of people with disability in the workplace
Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP)
Providing new migrants and humanitarian entrants functional English language skills to confidently participate in Australian community and work life
Skills for Education and Employment (SEE)
Delivering customised English language, numeracy and digital literacy training for those on income support
Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
Delivering registered training through a number of individual contracts with Australian state and territory governments
Complex Case Support Services
Providing specialised and intensive case management services to humanitarian entrants with complex and high needs
ParentsNext
Assisting parents with children aged six months to six years with education and employment goals prior to their children attending school
School Leaver Employment Support (SLES)
Providing school-leavers with disability a pathway into meaningful employment
44 | 2017 Year in Review
State Government Contracts Program
Description
Region
Program for Students with Disability (PSD) delivered by Assessments Australia
Providing in-school assessment services of students with disability to inform funding decisions
VIC
Disability Support Planning (DSP) delivered by Assessments Australia
Providing planning assistance and tailored services to clients in preparation for NDIS arrangements
NSW
Smart Skilled and Hired Youth Employment (SSHYE) Program
Department of Industry Skills and Regional Development
High-Level Personal Care Need Assessments delivered by Assessments Australia
Assessing the level of support required for people with disability to ensure high quality of life is maintained
NSW
Child Welfare Assessments delivered by Assessments Australia
Assessing carers and foster families and providing recommendations to government for care arrangement decisions
QLD, NSW, SA, ACT
Community Development Program (CDP)
Providing job seekers living in remote locations with greater access to employment opportunities
WA
Vocational Training and Employment Centres (VTEC)
Connecting Indigenous job seekers and school leavers with guaranteed jobs and bringing together support services necessary to prepare job seekers for employment
WA
Housing Employment Program (HEP)
Providing affordable housing and financial independence for those eligible
Borallon Training and Correctional Centre (BTCC) Program
Delivering on-site mental health, cultural and employment support services to job seekers and employers based at BTCC
Western Sydney, NSW
Ipswich, Capalaba, Bundaberg, QLDÂ
Borallon, QLD
2017 Year in Review | 45