Rachel Sammons was one of the four young women most recently presented with the McCusker Centre for Citizenship Outstanding Intern Award, for her significant contribution to the Department of Transport’s Employee Relations team, where she supported policy development to foster safety and inclusion in the workplace.
Now a UWA graduate, Rachel undertook the McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship as part of her studies in Work and Employment Relations and Psychology in Society, after hearing a positive review from a friend.
“I thought it would be really exciting to have the opportunity to work alongside the community and gain industry skills,” said Rachel.
Rachel’s project at the Department of Transport saw her review the organisation’s code of conduct and support the development of a new bullying and harassment policy.
“I think the most rewarding part of my internship was constructing the bullying and harassment policy for the department,” said Rachel.
“Whilst policy documents can tend to be overlooked by people, they form the foundation of an organisation, outlining what needs to be done in particular situations,
“The Employee Relations team discussed the importance of a supportive workplace and encouraging employees to speak up when problems arise. The creation of this policy supported the Department’s value of wellbeing - which was a really cool thing to be a part of,” said Rachel.
The team she was part of during her internship praised her enthusiasm, innovation, adaptability, and ability to perform tasks above and beyond what was asked of her.
“Rachel is professional, resilient and has a strong work ethic,” said Lauren MacBride, Department of Transport Manager of Employee Relations.
“The work that Rachel has undertaken aids employees and managers on how to raise, address and resolve workplace bullying and harassment,”
Rachel is thankful for the internship experience, which has supported her in securing a graduate role for 2023.
“I think the internship really encouraged me to give things a go. It reinforced that I have valuable skills to offer the Department and provided me a fantastic opportunity to utilise the skills and knowledge I acquired throughout university, and apply them in a practical setting,” said Rachel.
“Additionally, my host organisation provided me with a platform to express views prevalent in a younger demographic, providing the perspective of a younger worker. It made me feel very valuable,” she said.