Proud Yuin woman proves nothing can stand in her way

Yuin people are the traditional owners of the Wallaga Lake area and around the southern coast of New South Wales. And Justice Storer (pictured) is a proud and strong Yuin woman. 

Like many young Indigenous Australians, Justice has faced many challenges. Coming from a background of generational unemployment, she has at times struggled with mental health issues. 

But looking at her now, Justice’s enthusiasm and determination shine through.

“Upon first meeting her, everyone is super impressed with her energetic, bubbly nature,” says Justice’s MAX consultant, Leah Haak.

Justice joined MAX determined to not only find a job, but a career.

“We work with Apprenticeship Careers Australia in Wollongong and when I heard there was an opening for a Plant Operator, I knew Justice would be perfect for the role,” she says.

Justice was up for the challenge and as she and Leah prepared for the interview, Justice shared her motivation for applying with Leah.

“I want to prove to everyone, especially young, Aboriginal women, that we can make something of ourselves, prove ourselves and be the best, even in a male-dominated industry,” says Justice. 

“I want to show my siblings that we can be better and I want to be a role model to them,” she says.

Within a month of starting her new role as a plant operator, Justice began learning to operate large plant equipment and monitor in the control room. She has even begun showing newer staff the ropes.

“Her Employers and colleagues love her so much that they have reached out and asked us to find ‘another Justice’ and while I am happy to support another amazing young person into a great opportunity, I know there is only one Justice!,” says Leah.

The team at Warrigal Employment, part of Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation, walk alongside many of our Indigenous customers, like Justice, providing mentoring, support and guidance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the Illawarra. 

Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation is an Aboriginal community-controlled, not-for-profit organisation. They provide advocacy and culturally appropriate services to meet the needs of the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.