Our mentors work with participants to help them get ready to move into a job. RAES also offers opportunities for job seekers to be engaged in local projects in their community if they are unable to work or they are on the pathway to finding a job.
Our RAES program focuses on three projects where participants can build skills and experience whilst contributing to their communities. These projects have been codesigned and developed in direct response to community priorities identified through consultation sessions held across Laverton, Leonora and Wiluna.
Maintenance crews
Locally based maintenance crews undertake hands-on, supervised work, responding to community priorities. Participants build job-readiness through routine, responsibility and safe work practices.
Activities include:
• Gardening and yard work, clean-up of cemeteries and community spaces including Bondini Reserve, Malcolm Dam, Wongatha Wonganara Village and Nambi Village basketball court.
• Creation and maintenance of shaded areas, and preparation and maintenance of sites for Sorry Business. Participants develop safe tool use, teamwork and develop work fitness through meaningful community activities.
Basic mechanical skills
This project builds practical, job-relevant skills in vehicle care and asset management. Managing tools and spare parts introduces planning and logistics and supports roles in inventory management, scheduling and logistics. This builds transferable skills relevant to local industries, including mining and waste services.
Activities include:
• Basic vehicle maintenance skills, including changing tyres, checking and replacing filters, and performing simple under-bonnet checks.
• Safe tool use and workshop practices, focusing on correct handling of hand tools and basic safety procedures.
• Routine vehicle safety checks, such as tyres, fluids, lights, battery condition, and dashboard warning indicators.
• Knowing when to seek professional help, including recognising issues beyond basic maintenance and understanding service intervals.
Community Pantry and Hydroponics
Operating from our Leonora hub (a former supermarket), the community pantry delivers dual outcomes: improved food security, alleviating cost-of-living pressures, and skills development through hands-on, practical work. Delivered in partnership with Foodbank and supported by Glencore, it provides equitable access to fresh and dry goods and complements our existing hydroponics garden in Leonora.
Activities include:
• Food handling, storage and logistics.
• Customer service, ordering and planning.
• Warehousing, including forklift operation.
• Horticulture through hydroponics and fresh-produce supply.
Our participants are gaining real-world work experience and practical skills development aligned with nationally recognised tickets (e.g. Forklift), and foundational employability skills such as teamwork, responsibility, planning and communication. Participants can be involved in one or multiple elements of the project.
Supported by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, we deliver the RAES throughout the Yaaliku region of WA.
The Remote Australia Employment Service (RAES) supports job seekers in remote Australia to build their skills and address barriers to getting a job. This service works with participants to help them get ready to move into a job. It also offers opportunities for job seekers to be engaged in local projects in their community if they are unable to work or they are on the pathway to finding a job. Find out more.
