Paynter Dixon is supporting a new program which provides paid work experience opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers.

Our Executive General Manager and Design Architect, Matthew Greene, had great pleasure in announcing the new Work and Welcome program – introduced by the not for profit group, House of Welcome – at a conference hosted by Christian Schools Australia.

Matthew addressed delegates not on the depth of our design and construction services, but rather the depth of Paynter Dixon’s philanthropic activities as a strategic partner of PAYCE Foundation.

Under the program, various organisations – including schools – can provide funding for job placements via a workplace giving model. Paynter Dixon supports the program in conjunction with the PAYCE Foundation.

“Many new people come to Australia and struggle to find employment because they can’t demonstrate a local work history and may not be fluent in English,” says Matthew. “This program creates an opportunity for paid work experience at a reasonable wage.”

“Providing timely support and confidence, participants can go forward with the experience to secure long-term employment.”

“I was impressed by the level of interest expressed at the NSW/ACT State Conference. We look forward to helping facilitate relationships between the Christian school community and the House of Welcome program.”

Abdul Kargbo left behind the conflict in Sierra Leone for a new life in Australia. He is now supported by the House of Welcome program and working at St Patrick’s College in Strathfield.

“I was given an opportunity – something at the right time and right place,” says Abdul.

“The program gave me a stepping stone to Australia.”

Learn more about Abdul and the program in our video.