A culture that counts
At Powerlink, we’re committed to creating a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. That’s exactly what Sefanit has experienced during her time with us. Her journey from Ethiopia to New Zealand and, ultimately, Australia has brought a wealth of experience to our team as Grid Controls Planning Engineer. At Powerlink, Sefi says her unique perspective is one of her greatest strengths.
“When you look at Powerlink as a whole, it’s quite diverse,” she says. “The people here are from all over the world. And when you have that much diversity, the thinking is diverse, and therefore the solutions are much better. Here, they’re quite open and they encourage your thinking. We always have discussions within our teams, and we ask ourselves, ‘How can we make this better?’ That always encourages us to think differently and to contribute.”
It’s not just about the outcomes - it’s also about how our people feel. Sarah, our General Manager Design Solutions, says a career with us is built on real relationships and skills, no matter your background.
“I represented Powerlink during a visit to South Korea recently, and everyone who came with me had a very different cultural background. We had the opportunity to be there for our company, ranging from a Technical Specialist all the way to an Executive General Manager. It was really great to see. We don’t promote people based on how well they speak English or what gender they are. It’s about what you bring. And that feeling really matters.”
Inclusion in action
We know actions speak louder than words. As a WORK180 accredited organisation, our approach to creating a diverse and equitable culture starts with real impact and effort. That’s why Leanne is proud to work with us. Joining as our first female electrician in 1994, our Power System Operations Team Leader has witnessed the increasing representation of women at Powerlink and, more broadly, in the industry.
“The company values inclusivity and diversity and doesn’t discriminate. If you have the skills and determination, there are no limits to what you can achieve at Powerlink.” Leanne says.
For Sefi, inclusion at Powerlink means having the opportunity to learn new people-management skills. She says our Women in Leadership course is one example of how our people are supported to break barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
“They guide us through leadership,” Sefi says. “For example, we learn new organisational and interpersonal skills. That course is open to all the women at Powerlink. And I know people have gone into leadership positions after that course. So, you can see they really walk the talk.”
And while there’s always more work to do, Sarah says Powerlink is taking the right steps to promote greater diversity and inclusion for all.
“Every organisation can improve its representation. And there’s so many things happening in Powerlink to ensure we get there quicker. For example, we have so many different programs to accelerate women in leadership and to provide our female engineers with more opportunities. We also have policies and a real cultural commitment to rule out any discrimination in the workplace. That’s what matters.”
Freedom to thrive
At Powerlink, feeling safe to be your whole self extends beyond the workplace. That’s why you’ll find a range of key benefits and initiatives here, all designed to help you thrive. As a mum-of-two, Sarah appreciates the opportunity to balance her career and personal life.
“Previously, I needed part-time hours. And as a Manager, that’s not very common. But Powerlink supported me to do what was best for my family, whether I needed to pick my kids up early or attend school events.”
It’s the flexibility that empowers many of Powerlink’s people. And if you’re looking to join an organisation that wants you to feel valued for who you truly are, Sarah says Powerlink might be right for you.
“Powerlink knows how important it is to provide a work-life balance for everybody. To be your whole self, you need to find the right balance for you - and Powerlink enables that.”