Calleo’s Impact on Indigenous Workforce Growth

At Calleo, we believe that meaningful career opportunities start with education, training and support. Our approach is designed to create lasting pathways for First Nations professionals, helping them build fulfilling careers across a range of industries. Recognising our range of initiatives, we have been shortlisted as a finalist for the Best Indigenous Workforce Development Program 2025, with winners to be announced at a black-tie event in Sydney in May.

As a provider of people services to over 40 Commonwealth organisations, including the Department of Defence, we understand the need for skilled Indigenous professionals in highly technical and complex roles. From IT infrastructure and cybersecurity to finance systems and project advisory, increasing Indigenous representation in these areas requires a long-term approach. This is why Calleo Indigenous was established, focusing on education, workforce participation, and community investment.

The Calleo Indigenous Community Fund

In partnership with Mel Brown, a proud Ngunnawal woman, Calleo Indigenous was founded with a strong commitment: 50% of the partnership’s profits go directly into an Indigenous Community Fund (CICF), supporting social justice causes and career development initiatives for First Nations peoples.

What began as a small initiative funding grassroots projects in remote communities has evolved into a significant force for change. In 2024, the CICF contributed over $400,000 to Indigenous workforce development, supporting education, training, and employment pathways across Australia.

Our Focus on Education

Education is the foundation for long-term workforce participation. We have established:

• Over $1 million in scholarships currently supporting 40 Indigenous students, with an additional $1.5 million committed to continuing the programme.

• Partnerships with six universities across Australia, providing Indigenous students with financial support, mentorship, and industry exposure.

• A $200,000 investment in the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund, helping descendants of Indigenous veterans complete their tertiary education and strengthening Indigenous participation in Defence and national security.

Beyond Scholarships: A Support Network for Indigenous Talent

While financial support is essential, career success depends on more than just education—it requires networking, mentorship, and ongoing development. In 2024, we began work on the Calleo Indigenous Alumni Programme, connecting Indigenous graduates and professionals to build a network of support and shared knowledge.

Career development workshops and networking events help Indigenous professionals navigate the transition from study to employment. As the program grows, it aims to introduce mentorship, pairing new graduates with experienced mentors to provide career guidance and industry insights. By building a strong peer community, the program keeps Indigenous rising talent engaged in long-term, high-value careers.

Our Approach to Indigenous Workforce Development

Calleo Indigenous isn’t just about scholarships—we take a holistic approach to breaking down barriers to employment. Our initiatives address key challenges that prevent Indigenous Australians from entering and thriving in the workforce, such as access to transport, technology, and early education.

Some impactful programmes we’ve funded include:

• Driving Skills Programme: In partnership with Worldview Technologies, we’ve invested $90,000 to help young Indigenous Australians gain their driver’s licences—an essential step toward employment, particularly in regional areas.

• Early Education Support: Recognising that workforce development starts early, we’ve provided $67,500 to Enrise to fund Indigenous student tutoring and $67,500 to Library-for-All to support culturally relevant literacy programmes.

• Remote Access Initiatives: We’ve contributed $10,000 to the Dr. Steve Burroughs Foundation to provide computers and digital resources to students in remote areas, ensuring that education is accessible regardless of location.

• Grassroots Community Projects: Our fund supports initiatives in education, leadership, capacity building, health, and sports development, all of which tie back into our core goal: increasing Indigenous workforce participation.
  

A Sustainable Pipeline for Indigenous Talent

Calleo’s long-term vision is to create a sustainable, growing pipeline of Indigenous talent across technical and professional fields. By investing in education, breaking down employment barriers, and building career support networks, our focus is on helping individuals succeed and fulfil their potential. Through partnerships, advocacy, and continued investment we hope to drive lasting change and create pathways which lead to increased Indigenous workforce participation in Commonwealth Agencies and the Defence sector.