Workforce NT
Incubation Program Partner
Life as a fly in, fly out worker in remote Australia is intense – you can be away from your home and family from two to six weeks at a time while working to achieve someone else’s vision.
No-one knows the highs and lows of this lifestyle more than Paul Wickham, who has spent 15+ years working in the mining and agriculture industries.
But through his new business, Paul is creating a different future for his family and his community.
“Growing up in the Barkly region, I’ve never seen an Indigenous labour hire business. I’m creating employment for these guys to stay on their Country.”
— Paul Wickham
About Workforce NT.
Wombaya man Paul Wickham has always been one to take opportunities when they present themselves. This attitude has seen him create an incredibly successful career in the mining industry in the Northern Territory and Queensland, including stints with BHP and Newcrest, among others.
But, while he could sit back and enjoy the rewards of his hard work, Paul has remained acutely aware of how few opportunities there are for young people in his homelands in the Barkly region.
This awareness of his responsibility as a role model, and a strong desire to give back and positively impact his local community, remain key drivers in Paul’s ambition to create his own company, after decades of working for others.
Workforce NT is a 100% Indigenous owned-and-operated labour hire company, focusing on the mining and civil construction industries.
It will create immense value for the local workers, and for government bodies and companies looking to support Indigenous businesses through their supply chain. Paul’s unique blend of personal and cultural knowledge, and professional experience, will also ensure that there is meaningful engagement with local communities on major projects.
Workforce NT aims to create job opportunities for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to stay on Country with their families and not have to travel long distances for work. This emphasis on the wellbeing of workers will ensure a better work-life balance and aid retention rates.
By supporting the next generation of Barkly locals with access to meaningful work opportunities, Paul is creating a mentoring pathway for young people coming through. He is changing the future for his community.
“I want to start this business to be able to move forward, and to make things easier for my kids and the next generation to grow and be a part of a business.”
— Paul Wickham