Opportunity to build better retention and resilience into workforces, including manufacturing, construction and healthcare

Kairros, experts in culturally diverse workplace rehabilitation and part of MedHealth, have released a new White Paper which reports that their unique rehabilitation model is achieving long-term recovery outcomes for culturally diverse clients at rates above the industry average and at up to half the claim cost.

Prompted by recent productivity debates, The Participation Edge White Paper explores how Kairros’ ‘Diverse Recoveries Service Model’ has been harnessed to retain skilled workers and boost workforce resilience, as Australia seeks to reignite productivity across key sectors of the economy.

“Over the better part of this year, national debate has been focused on improving productivity. While the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce has been identified as a priority reform, we know from experience supporting diverse workforces that it will be equally necessary to also build retention and resilience into that growing workforce”, explained Liz Bleasdale, General Manager of Kairros.

The Participation Edge notes that the same industries that report the highest rates of migrant workers – manufacturing, construction and healthcare – are among those foreshadowed to experience significant expansion in the coming years. This underscores the need for workforce support and rehabilitation services that facilitate workforce participation and retention for a culturally diverse workforce.

“We see opportunities for specialist support services to complement the reforms currently under consideration,” said Liz.

“As the White Paper notes, so often big questions of social policy are viewed as problems for government. However, we can contribute practical solutions to the big problems that Australia is grappling with. Making culturally responsive, client-centred support available to more of the workforce can bolster the retention of skilled workers in the key sectors that will drive productivity in the coming years.”

The White Paper reports that Kairros’ Diverse Recoveries Service Model is achieving durable recovery outcomes at rates above the industry average, and at up to half the claim cost. The Paper draws on client testimonials to underscore the impact that Kairros’ unique approach has had in removing barriers to rehabilitation and giving clients a greater sense of autonomy and empowerment over their recovery.

A series of events will be hosted to discuss the themes of the White Paper commencing with Wollongong and the Gold Coast in 2025, and in other cities in 2026. To find out more about these events, contact the team at Kairros.