Prime Minister’s Community Business Award Winners Produce Big Benefits for Communities

The Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Kay Patterson, today congratulated two multi-state partnerships, for winning awards under the 2004 Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Community Business Partnerships.

These award-winning partnerships have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to communities, helping women newly diagnosed with breast cancer and by increasing public awareness of the importance of first aid training.

The Multi-State Large Business Award was won by a partnership between Bakers Delight and Breast Cancer Network Australia for their national resource project, which will assist up to 6,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer over the next year.

“This partnership started in 1999 when Bakers Delight offered rent-free office space for the Breast Cancer Network and has since grown to something much bigger,” Senator Patterson said.

“The sharing of office facilities has enabled both organisations to develop the relationship, which has resulted in a mutual respect and understanding. Ongoing support from Bakers Delight, as well as event-based promotion, has allowed the Breast Cancer Network to develop innovative information resources for women diagnosed with breast cancer.

“The partnership has also helped Bakers Delight to gain a better understanding of breast cancer and its impact, as well as the opportunity to work alongside survivors of breast cancer.

“Through the support received from Bakers Delight, the Breast Cancer Network has been able to establish itself as a voice for women affected by breast cancer.”

The Multi-State Large Business Encouragement Award has been presented the Insurance Australia Group and St John Ambulance Australia for their commitment to reducing risk and making Australian communities safer.

Insurance Australia Group has been working with St John Ambulance, sharing skills and knowledge, particularly in the areas of marketing and brand management, public affairs, government relations and call centre management.

St John Ambulance has been able to help Insurance Australia Group develop and achieve a best practice workplace health and safety culture. This improved safety culture has reduced injuries in the workplace and raised awareness of the importance of early intervention and risk reduction.

“As a result of this partnership, three important areas of activity have been developed which has allowed St John Ambulance to improve safety in the community, increase the number of Automated External Defibrillators in public places and increase the public’s awareness of the importance of first aid training.

“These award winners underline the many community benefits produced by business and community groups combining talents and resources to work together,” Senator Patterson said.