Serco provides relief for victims of floods and fires

Extreme weather patterns have brought devastating consequences to many parts of Australia this summer. Fires and floods directly impacted some Serco employees and their communities, notably at Pontville Immigration Detention Centre in Tasmania and the South Queensland Correctional Centre (SQCC) in the Lockyer Valley.

Staff at these sites made outstanding efforts to help those affected. At Pontville, which has seen several bushfires in the surrounding area, a fundraising drive raised $7,500 for the Red Cross’ disaster relief and recovery appeal. A further $2000 was donated by Serco, bringing the total to $9,500.

Meanwhile, SQCC is providing laundry services to people affected by the recent Queensland floods in an emergency accommodation centre in Gatton. The prison has also applied to provide a range of services to support the clean-up and rebuild of the local community.

David Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, Serco Asia Pacific, said he was proud that Serco employees responded so promptly to help their communities. To strengthen their contribution, Serco Asia Pacific is donating a further $5000 to the Red Cross, who are driving relief efforts.

‘Tragically, the bushfires and floods have claimed a number of lives and we send our condolences to those affected. We also thank the rescue crews and emergency service workers for their brave efforts, and everyone who has already made such a difference.

Last year, we launched a policy allowing all permanent staff two days’ leave to volunteer for the causes of their choice. This year, our managers will enable their teams to use that leave to help communities affected by floods and fires.

‘More work will be needed to help and I encourage people to give to the Red Cross so that those affected can get back on their feet as quickly as possible. Visit the Red Cross website to find out how you can donate funds or register to volunteer in your state’.