Supermarket with a winning strategy

Job prospects can be few and far between in some small rural townships—even harder if you have a disability.

But a food retailer in Malanda—population 1000, 75 kilometres south-west of Cairns—has turned the tables on that trend.

For nearly 10 years, management at SPAR Malanda supermarket have actively recruited people with a disability.

'Everyone deserves a chance in life. I've always believed that,' says owner Michael English.

'As an employer, I want people who want to work. That's the bottom line. And my staff all can do their jobs. Some just need a little help.'

Michael says his floor manager, Sharlene Sturgess, works closely with an employment agency in recruiting staff—with ability to complete a job's tasks being considered over any disability.

SPAR Malanda Supermarket won a 2011 Disability Action Week Award for its commitment to employment practices that value employee diversity.

More information

Information is available for employers and colleagues about supporting people with a disability in employment.