One of the standout features of Ozwater'24 was an event designed to connect skilled migrants and refugees with career opportunities in the water sector. This initiative emerged from an AWA industry event where employers provided guidance and industry veterans shared their migration experiences.
Attracting new talent to the water sector is a focus of AWA's mission, leading to the launch of the Careers in Water initiative. Integrating skilled migrants and refugees into the industry is a critical strategy to bridge the skills gap affecting the water sector and the broader economy.
The 23 enthusiastic, skilled migrant participants were eager to learn about the industry and network with potential employers. Ozwater exhibitors warmly engaged with the group, offering valuable information and contacts to support their job search.
In the months following Ozwater'24, several participants have successfully secured employment within the water sector, including positions at Wannon Water and Yarra Valley Water. Many others have been invited to interviews with people they met at Ozwater. The Australian Water Association has provided all participants free memberships, enabling them to continue building their networks and career prospects.
Special thanks go to our sponsors, AECOM and John Holland, the Exhibitors, and Victorian Branch volunteer hosts Sam Skinner, Frederic Blin, Savalan Pour, and Christopher Lee, for making this event possible. We hope this success encourages more skilled migrants to engage with the broader water sector through the Australian Water Association and that this event becomes a permanent fixture at future Ozwater conferences.
by Ali Rahimi
