Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has recently awarded two waste facility operational services contracts to locally-based not-for-profit organisation Ability Enterprises, which will give residents a second chance through employment at Council.

Ability Enterprises provides employment opportunities for members of the community who are marginalised, and face obstacles surrounding employment.

Since 2012, TRC has been working alongside the not-for-profit social enterprise employing local residents to manage the Region’s various waste facilities through the provision of gatehouse and maintenance services across the Region.

Ability Enterprises is also about to embark on an exciting new chapter with the recent contract now including management of Council’s two major tip shops at the Greater Toowoomba and Kleinton Waste Management Facilities.

Council’s Tip Shops have historically served approximately 30,000 customers each year and have successfully diverted 500 tonnes of waste from landfill.

Almost 500 local people have been given employment opportunities through Ability Enterprises, with a number of people securing work at the Council.

This has significantly improved the Region’s local economy and has had a profound impact on residents’ lives.

Portfolio spokesperson for Waste Services Cr Melissa Taylor said the partnership was a fantastic way to support community members who are struggling to find meaningful employment.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see how this partnership with Ability Enterprises is creating real opportunities for people in our community,” Cr Taylor said.

“Meaningful employment provides a real sense of purpose and connection.

“Everyone deserves the chance to contribute and thrive, and this initiative is making a genuine difference in people’s lives.

Council also benefits from the partnership with Ability Enterprises as it creates diversification and inclusion within the workplace, outcomes which improve the organisation’s productivity and engagement.

“A diverse and inclusive workplace fosters innovation, enhances decision-making, and creates a more engaged workforce,” Cr Taylor said.

“At the tip shops, having a team from different backgrounds means a better understanding of customers’ needs and a more welcoming experience for everyone who visits.”

CEO of Ability Enterprises Claire Torkington said the two waste facility operational services contracts meant members of the Toowoomba Region community can gain a range of skills, and gain confidence through their employment.

Ms Torkington said she was looking forward to continuing and expanding Ability Enterprises services to the Toowoomba Region and was grateful for the partnership with TRC.

“The Council’s commitment to social procurement is a great example of local government procuring services in a way that delivers benefits for residents in many ways,” she said.

Cr Taylor said she was excited to see the Ability Enterprises continue to make a real difference in the community.

This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 10 April 2025.