Creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace

For Simon Dent, former Superintendent Production at our Worsley Alumina operation, the challenge of finding the right person for the job was the perfect opportunity to highlight our commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Jennifer Ten Broeke, who is now our Supervisor Fixed Plant at Worsley, had 18 years of experience at mines across Australia and was a top candidate during the recruitment process.

Before her interview, Jenny felt she should disclose that she was in a wheelchair. She had been overlooked for roles in the past because of her limited mobility and didn’t want to set herself up for disappointment.

For Simon, Jenny’s disability wasn’t going to stand in the way of employing the right person. He set to work with Job Access and Forrest Personnel to ensure that Worsley Alumina could accommodate Jenny.  

Jenny said that initially there were a few issues with site entry and accessibility, but Simon and South32 made improvements to sort them out. 

“The width of the gate meant I couldn’t fit my chair through the turnstile, so we’ve worked out vehicle access. Ramps have been added, modifications made to bathroom facilities and automatic doors installed to help out,” Jenny said.

A new all-wheel drive wheelchair helps Jenny get around site and our innovation and technology team are helping with drones and cameras to allow Jenny to keep an eye on what’s happening in the field.

In 2004, Jenny was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis which has led to her being in a wheelchair. However, Jenny has remitting MS and hopes that in time she may be able to walk again. 

Jenny worked at our Cannington operation nearly 20 years ago and has moved across the top of Australia working at Tanami in the Northern Territory and Tom Price in the Pilbara, before heading south to Worsley Alumina in Western Australia.