Championing diversity and inclusion at Mount Arthur South

At Thiess, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive innovation and excellence at our sites. That's why we're proud to shine a spotlight on our Mount Arthur South Indigenous/Inclusive Trainee Employment (MASITE) Program at Thiess Mount Arthur South, an award-winning initiative designed to provide training and employment opportunities for women and Indigenous Australians in the mining industry.

Launched in March 2021, the MASITE Program targets new-to-industry Indigenous and female candidates. It aims to nurture talent from within our local communities while encouraging greater participation from Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and female individuals in the local community.

What sets the MASITE Program apart is its holistic approach to training and development. Over the course of a 12-month traineeship, participants are immersed in a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip them with the skills of a Production Operator. This includes theoretical and practical training, with a focus on safety, operational excellence, and technical proficiency.

The Program goes beyond just technical training. Participants also benefit from access to a world-class training hub, featuring fully immersive simulators and custom-made sandpits with model machinery. Mentored by industry leaders and supported by their peers, trainees are provided with a nurturing and inclusive environment to learn and develop new skills.

Since its inception, the MASITE Program has achieved remarkable success. With 122 participants to date, including 73 women and 57 Indigenous individuals, the program has made significant strides in diversifying our workforce. Female participation on site has increased by 5.2%, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation has increased by 9%.

Another positive outcome of the Program is 92% of MASITE trainees have transitioned to permanent roles at Thiess upon completion of the program. This speaks volumes about the effectiveness of the program in preparing individuals for successful careers in the mining industry.

Looking ahead, Thiess remains committed to the ongoing success of the MASITE Program. In 2024, we aim to onboard between 48 and 72 new trainees.

The MASITE Program has not only had a positive impact on the culture at Mount Arthur South but also serves as a shining example of Thiess's commitment to driving meaningful change in the communities where we operate.

As we continue to empower individuals through initiatives like the MASITE Program, we're proud to play a role in building a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable future for the mining industry.