Reconciliation Action Plan Has Key Role in C.H. Robinson’s Oceania Growth

MELBOURNE (1 July, 2019) - C.H. Robinson, one of the world’s largest third-party logistics providers (3PL), announces today its partnership with the Indigenous Defence and Infrastructure Consortium (iDiC), and the formal incorporation of a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) into all facets of its Australian operations. 


C.H. Robinson has a strong Australian presence and this commitment to iDiC will ensure that all employees are provided education about Indigenous cultures through induction programs and e-learning courses. The iDiC partnership also aims to develop an understanding of the mutual benefits of procurement from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses.


“Last year, as part of our planning for future growth, we formed a RAP Working Group comprised of senior executives from C.H. Robinson and iDiC—including CEO Adam Goodes—to develop and fully engage the implementation of our Reconciliation Action Plan,” said Andrew Coldrey, vice president, Oceania at C.H. Robinson. “The RAP reinforces C.H. Robinson’s commitment to making a contribution to society, respecting diversity and supporting individual growth."


Mr. Goodes welcomed C.H. Robinson’s commitment to reconciliation. “C.H. Robinson had the vision to create stronger partnerships within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and businesses, and has worked with the iDiC to develop and implement a practical plan for moving forward. C.H. Robinson are committed partners and are great to work with,” Mr. Goodes said.


One of the companies helping C.H. Robinson to reinvent commerce in Australia is We Create Print Deliver, an advertising and business services company in South Australia. Pat Caruso, Director, Indigenous Business of We Create Print Deliver, conveyed that the national requirements of C.H. Robinson assist in maintaining its day-to-day operations and increase job security for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous employees. “We hope to grow our working relationship with C.H. Robinson as this type of partnership has great potential to help build Indigenous-owned businesses and their local communities,” Mr. Caruso said.


C.H. Robinson is continuing to engage and inform staff of the responsibilities and activities within the RAP, and is aiming to raise awareness of the program with suppliers and customers. They also plan to work with iDiC to introduce scholarships and vocational training for Indigenous students. 


C.H. Robinson is implementing its RAP throughout Australia, where it has offices in Wajuk Country (Western Australia), Kaurna Country (South Australia), Boon Wurrung Country (Victoria), Woiworung Country (Victoria), Eora Country (New South Wales) and Yuggara Country (Queensland).


About the Indigenous Defence & Infrastructure Consortium
The Indigenous Defence & Infrastructure Consortium (iDiC) was established because of Indigenous owned and controlled businesses seeking to participate in the delivery of long-term Nation building projects. Projects which build sovereign capability and infrastructure, offering longer term contracts and relationships with clients and meaningful participation of the Indigenous business sector. Energised and enthused by the National Innovation and Science Agenda, Indigenous entrepreneurs have rallied together to become a key cog in the supply chain of prime contractors in the Defence Industry.
 
As a supply chain aggregator and account manager, the iDiC focuses on identifying business opportunities for its Indigenous business consortium partners. It then presents turnkey solutions providing a de-risked integrated offering to its clients. The iDiC is able to navigate the supply chain requirements of large companies, which are somewhat daunting for small to medium enterprises, and prequalify as an approved supplier. By taking this approach Indigenous businesses are getting access to contracts which they normally would not have been able to as a stand-alone business. Visit www.idefcon.com.au for more information.


About We Create Print Deliver
We Create Print Deliver is your market access point for effective design, development and delivery of advertising and business services. We offer tailored, multi-channelled marketing strategies to identify and engage your target audience and increase your market share. We are a results driven company with your business’ challenges spearheading our desire to perform. We work as an extension of your business and with our 45 years of collaborative knowledge & experience, we make business better, easier and simpler. Our clients are our passion, we consider what we do for you fun! Visit www.wecreateprintdeliver.com.au for more information.