A brand-new Australian networking and mentoring group to assist university students transitioning into the workplace has been launched in Sydney.
The ‘Out for Australia’ organisation, officially launched to over 450 people at the Parliament of NSW, has developed relationships with some of Australia’s biggest employers to strengthen the sense of community among students and professionals entering the workforce.
The idea behind Out for Australia was fostered by CEO Matthew Yeldham and is derived from and an expansion of the ‘Out for Sydney’ networking group founded by Rob Atkinson in 2013.
Speaking with Eikon, Yeldham said there was a need for the service to assist those with excelling in their chosen profession.
“Our Mentoring Program, the cornerstone of our organisation, is designed to equip aspiring LGBTIQ professionals with the information, skills, contacts and role models to make their transition from university into the workplace easier,” Yeldham said.
Similarly to theGAPnz which launched last week in Auckland, the networking events are hosted by a different company each time and are open for anyone to attend.
“They also provide a forum to bring our mentors and mentees together.”
“Each event has a different feel from the speakers to the venue, and has a strong educative aspect.”
“Our networking events have a nurturing and inclusive culture, one that is focused on the professional and personal development of aspiring LGBTIQ professionals.”
The Out for Australia team is made up of volunteers from a diverse range of student and professional backgrounds.
The organisation has gained further legitimacy with Professor The Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO, the former Governor of NSW, named as Patron at the launch.
Chris Freeland is National Managing Partner of global law firm Baker & McKenzie and is founding prinicpal supporter of Out for Australia.
“Baker & McKenzie is delighted to be the founding principal sponsor of Out for Australia,” Freeland said.
“It has been a privilege for Baker & McKenzie to strengthen our relationship with Out for Australia during this incredible period of growth and we look forward to working together in 2015.”
Visit Out for Australia’s website For more information.
Last Updated on Mar 25, 2015
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