CPB Contractors is proud to highlight its long-standing partnership with CareerSeekers—an initiative that reflects our commitment to creating inclusive workplaces and supporting talented individuals in rebuilding their careers in Australia.
Now in its third three-year partnership agreement, CPB Contractors remains committed to supporting 10 CareerSeekers interns each year. Since 2019, we have welcomed more than 160 interns into our business, many of whom have gone on to secure long-term employment opportunities with us.
Our diversity policy aligns with the principles of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, particularly Article 23, which recognises the right to work, fair and favourable employment conditions, and protection against unemployment. Through our partnership with CareerSeekers, we continue to bring these principles to life.
CareerSeekers is a not-for-profit organisation that supports university‑educated refugees and people seeking asylum to re-establish their professional careers. By connecting participants with paid, skills-aligned internships, alongside career coaching and support, CareerSeekers helps individuals navigate the Australian workforce and unlock their full potential.
Mustafa Nabavi, now a Finance Professional with CPB Contractors, began his journey through the CareerSeekers internship program. He shares his experience of building a new career in Australia:
Can you describe your experience of moving to Australia?
Arriving in Australia in August 2021 was a major turning point for me and my family. Adjusting to a new environment, culture, and lifestyle was challenging, especially while trying to rebuild my professional life. Having my wife here made the transition easier. We supported each other and focused on creating a stable future together.
What challenges did you face when trying to enter the Australian workforce?
My biggest challenge was not having local Australian experience. Even with a degree and several years of work experience, I found that many employers required local knowledge. Understanding Australian systems, workplace expectations, and recruitment processes also took time. CareerSeekers helped me overcome these barriers and secure my first opportunity.
What do you enjoy most about your role with CPB Contractors?
What I enjoy most is the opportunity to grow every day. Starting my career on the M12 West Motorway Project allowed me to learn new accounting and management systems and gain a deeper understanding of Australian workplace culture. I also had the chance to make new friends and build strong professional relationships.
I value having a supportive team who guided me, and their support helped me settle into the team and feel confident in my role.
How has your career helped your family feel more connected to life in Australia?
Having stable employment has given my family and me a sense of security and belonging. It has helped us build routine, confidence, and a future here. My career has made it easier for us to settle, make connections, and feel part of the community.
Why is CareerSeekers valuable for individuals and companies?
CareerSeekers supports people who have strong skills and experience but need a fair chance to restart their careers in Australia. Many refugees face barriers such as a lack of local experience, and CareerSeekers helps remove these obstacles by connecting individuals with employers who value their potential.
For companies like CPB Contractors, it means gaining motivated, resilient employees who bring diverse experience and a strong work ethic.