In a skills-hungry marketplace, initiatives that encourage staff retention give businesses a competitive edge.
Zagame, VIC
Zagame Autobody has an employee assistance program in place that all employees can access – free and confidential. Staff members experiencing difficulties are given additional support and time off as needed. The company provides grocery vouchers to staff in times of hardship, and there are monthly team lunches and birthday cakes for every staff member.
Zagame organises team bonding events twice a year – activities such as paint ball, crazy golf or ten-pin bowling. The facility is cleaned every night to provide all staff with a clean workplace. Each technician has their own work bay with hoist, airline and dust extraction for OH&S purposes.
Zagame provides excellent career support and pathways for promotion. Staff can move departments or change career direction, in fact most management staff within Zagame have transitioned from technician and other roles. The company encourages staff development and will fund staff looking to take on further studies.
MPSR, NSW
MPSR provides support for employee well-being through a variety of initiatives including discounted meals from Athletes Nutrition to encourage healthy eating. Culturally sensitive accommodations, such as a prayer room, foster inclusivity. Social events, from monthly lunches to festive gatherings, promote relaxation, while frequent team outings enhance morale.Through membership with the MTA, MPSR provides legal support for HR and safety issues, ensuring employee rights are safeguarded. Weekly performance bonuses reward hard work, and personalised employee profiles help the company provide financial support and guidance as needed.MPSR invests in staff training, including certifications like First Aid, EV handling, and I-Car welding. Partnerships with centres like Axalta and Lowbake bring advanced training directly to employees. Employees have access to a feedback system, and workshop improvements are highlighted to acknowledge progress.MPSR collaborates with EmploySure and EmploySafe for risk management and compliance with safety standards. Toolbox meetings and rigorous training ensure staff remain informed and equipped to handle equipment safely.
Through a robust culture of professional growth, community engagement, and rigorous safety measures, MPSR says it demonstrates a commitment to cultivating a safe, supportive, and innovative workplace.
Willmot Smash, QLD
Willmot Smash Repair Specialists provides a work environment built on employee well-being, professional development, and an empowering culture. The team at Willmot Autobody enjoys state-of-the-art facilities, including a spacious smoko room, immaculate workshops, and an in-house gym. On Fridays, coffee runs bring staff together for the last-day-of-the-week tradition, complete with a refreshing end-of-day ale.Willmot Autobody promotes work-life balance with flexible scheduling options, allowing staff to choose between four-day or four-and-a-half-day workweeks that align with personal lifestyles. Staff are trusted to manage their schedules to meet production goals without micromanagement, resulting in high morale and productivity. Office hours are structured to provide uninterrupted focus times, with phones temporarily paused to facilitate training and customer service improvements.Celebrations are integral to Willmot’s culture, from birthday parties to BBQs and team outings that bring everyone together. Milestones and achievements are celebrated with mid-year and Christmas socials or unique experiences like go-karting, camping, and fine dining for the administrative team, building camaraderie and making lasting memories.Career progression is central, with many success stories among current team members progressing ‘up the ranks’. Safety is a top priority, supported by thorough onboarding, regular meetings, and a live WHS system. The team has two trained First Aid officers, well-stocked emergency supplies, and upcoming Mental Health First Aid training. The employee assistance Program also provides resources for staff and their families.The team engages in continuous professional development, from I-Car training to HR and leadership sessions, ensuring staff growth aligns with evolving industry standards.