Aboriginal Engagement

RESPECTING INDIGENOUS CONNECTIONS

We recognise the deep and enduring relationship that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have with the land, air and sea. We are committed to working in genuine partnership with Indigenous communities – not as a compliance obligation, but as a core part of how we operate.

Our Indigenous Participation Plan applies across all projects, sites and offices. We support Indigenous workforce participation through direct employment, joint ventures, Aboriginal-owned business partnerships, and subcontractor engagement – backed by practical development pathways that build long-term capability.

Indigenous team members make up approximately 5% of our workforce. We focus on creating genuine pathways and a culture where Indigenous people are supported to succeed and lead. Through our Leadership Development Programs – spanning foundational, frontline and senior levels – Indigenous employees have access to the same career progression pathways as everyone at UON

All new starters are paired with a senior UON mentor through our buddy system, providing practical support and cultural guidance from day one.

UON supports apprentices across electrical, mechanical and fabrication disciplines. Through our partnership with North Metro TAFE’s First Nations Pre-Apprenticeship Program, we provide two guaranteed placement positions each year – a structured pathway from training into trade employment.

UON commissioned Aboriginal artist Caitlin Trindall of Mirii Art to create an original artwork that represents who we are. Each symbol was chosen deliberately – reflecting our solutions, our people, our approach to collaboration, and the youth of today as the leaders of tomorrow. You can see the artwork and the meaning behind each symbol below.

As our business grows, so does our commitment – to the communities we work alongside, and to the people who make that work possible.