Jayden’s Journey to Work

29 June 2026
Waalitj Foundation is providing community maintenance support in Laverton, thanks to jobs funded through the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program, and participant Jayden Laidlaw is now working in a new role in our Community Maintenance Initiative in Laverton.

Jayden is a participant in our Remote Australia Employment Service (RAES), and as part of this program undertook irrigation training before stepping his new role. His early commitment to learning showed he was ready for the job, and since joining he has continued to build his skills through further training.

This has included earthmoving training, where he has learned how to safely clear land, prepare worksites, and operate machinery in a range of conditions, as well as training for working in confined spaces. When he first started, Jayden was facing some tough barriers to employment, including limited identification and not yet holding a driver’s licence. With support from the Waalitj Foundation team, he was able to secure the necessary identification and complete the steps needed to obtain his licence.

Through ongoing mentoring and support, Jayden has developed into a reliable and committed team member. He is now working towards his goal of long-term employment in Laverton.

Through his role, Jayden has contributed to projects that give back to his community, including building a yarning pit at Laverton School, upkeep of the Youth Centre garden, and general garden maintenance across town.

This outcome for Jayden highlights his commitment, and the impact of culturally-appropriate support, practical training, and opportunities that are responsive to real local needs.

Funded by NIAA, our RJED positions form part of our Community Maintenance Initiative which maintains and improves public spaces while providing meaningful employment and skills development.

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