When we look back at how far we’ve come – the projects we’ve completed, the clients we work with – it’s surprising to think Marawar has had such an impact on the industry.
Marawar has become a state-wide force in the commercial, residential and civil construction and maintenance industry.
And as we’ve done so, we’ve started a ripple effect that’s transforming our industry and the lives, prospects and potential of Aboriginal people and communities throughout WA.
The adoption of Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs) in the business community tells us that there is a growing and, no doubt, genuine desire for reconciliation. Many businesses want to take meaningful action to overcome the social and institutional barriers to Aboriginal employment.
But the truth is, Aboriginal people are still excluded. The construction industry is a case in point.
When we established Marawar, the number of Aboriginal people in the industry was shockingly low. In WA, there were approximately 33,000 apprentices in training. 741 were Aboriginal. Of those in Perth and the South West, fewer than 90 Aboriginal people were learning building trades.
A lack of understanding, support and Aboriginal role models in the construction industry meant that very few Aboriginal people even considered employment in our industry. And without Aboriginal people joining the industry, the lack of understanding and negative perceptions of Aboriginal people would continue.
There’s a gap between our industry’s best intentions and positive outcomes for the Indigenous community. This is what motivates us. And the people who are excluded are our inspiration. For everyone at Marawar, it’s all about bridging the gap to create opportunities for Aboriginal people. Outcomes that change or even save lives. Outcomes that transform communities.
We have three set-in-stone commitments that have fueled our rapid growth. They ensure we maximise repeat business and referrals. And they’re the foundation for enduring client relationships, which enable us to deliver greater long-term value.
We always provide fully registered and certified tradespeople and contractors. We always fulfill our project obligations, on time and on budget. We never compromise quality or safety – our health, safety and quality management systems underpin our impeccable reputation.
We’re always looking for better, more efficient ways of working. Our level of service and solutions have to be at least as good as our non-Aboriginal competitors, so we never stop searching for better ways to deliver even more value for our clients.
With our clients. With our partners. With our contractors. With the Indigenous community. We share our vision, both as a business and an agent for social change, reconciliation and equality. We share our progress in driving Aboriginal engagement and employment, so our clients and partners not only actively contribute to our successes but feel that they own them.