TOMRA Cleanaway proudly participated in the 2026 KARI Aboriginal Education and Employment Expo, reinforcing its commitment to creating meaningful employment pathways and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across NSW.
As a leader in recycling and sustainability, TOMRA Cleanaway’s involvement aligns with its mission of “Driving Value from Recycling”- extending beyond environmental impact to deliver lasting social and economic benefits through community engagement and workforce development.
Connecting Young People with Careers in Recycling and Sustainability
At the KARI Employment Expo, TOMRA Cleanaway connected with students, job seekers, and community members, showcasing a wide range of career opportunities within the recycling and circular economy sector.
Attendees gained insight into roles across TOMRA Cleanaway, including customer service and retail operations, logistics and site management, recycling and sustainability programs, and corporate & support functions.
By engaging directly with participants, TOMRA Cleanaway helped build awareness of careers in recycling and sustainability in Australia, highlighting the industry’s growth and long-term employment potential.
A key focus was to highlight the value of purpose-driven careers, where individuals can contribute to meaningful environmental outcomes while building long-term career pathways.
Michelle Mandl, General Manager – Communications and Engagement and Chair of TOMRA Cleanaway’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group, emphasised the importance of connecting purpose with opportunity.
“Events like the KARI Employment Expo are incredibly important in helping young people see the tangible impact they can have through their careers. At TOMRA Cleanaway, we’re proud to offer roles that not only provide employment but also contribute to a more sustainable future.”
This message resonated strongly with attendees, particularly those seeking careers that align with their values and a desire to make a positive difference.
Strengthening Indigenous Employment and Community Partnerships
TOMRA Cleanaway’s participation reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting Indigenous employment pathways and building strong, respectful community partnerships, and advancing outcomes through its Reconciliation Action Plan.
KARI is a respected organisation dedicated to empowering Aboriginal communities, and the expo provides a valuable platform for connection between employers and local talent.
Michelle Mandl highlighted the importance of partnership and long-term engagement.
“Our Reconciliation Action Plan is focused on creating genuine opportunities and building enduring relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Partnering with organisations like KARI allows us to take meaningful steps toward these goals.”
Looking Ahead: Continuing to Support Careers and Communities
As TOMRA Cleanaway continues to expand its recycling network across Australia, initiatives like the KARI Employment Expo remain critical in connecting people, purpose, and opportunity.
Michelle Mandl reinforced this ongoing commitment.
“We see our role as extending beyond recycling infrastructure. It’s about supporting communities, creating opportunities, and ensuring that the benefits of the circular economy are shared more broadly.”
Through continued engagement and investment in community partnerships, TOMRA Cleanaway remains committed to creating lasting impact—both environmentally and socially.
