Over 65% of Australians not in dream job
Over 65% of Australians are not working in their dream job and 50% are looking for greater job satisfaction, a recent Newspoll survey has revealed.
This New Year, The Vodafone Australia Foundation will be throwing a lifeline to unsatisfied Australian workers with the World of Difference program. A unique opportunity open to all Australians, the program will offer four successful applicants the chance to dedicate a year to a chosen charity, with The Foundation covering their salary (up to $50,000) and expenses (up to $25,000).
Ramana James Head of The Vodafone Australia Foundation said: “Social responsibility has fast become one of Australia’s biggest passions. People are looking for roles and opportunities where they can make a real difference in both their own and other’s lives.”
“Our research proves that Australian’s are looking for more than just a pay cheque each week, they want to be proud of their work. With 1 in 4 Australians looking for a new job in 2008, the World of Difference program is the perfect opportunity to make a change for the better,” said James.
This year iconic Australian actress Sigrid Thornton has pledged her support for the World of Difference campaign, taking on an ambassador role. "World of Difference offers you a once in a lifetime opportunity. So many people talk about making a positive difference in the lives of others; about transforming their own lives by participating in a project or cause they are passionate about. If you're excited about being a catalyst for positive change World of Difference offers you a
real chance to do it."
World of Difference hopefuls are invited to visit www.vodafone.com.au/worldofdifference and submit their applications, which includes outlining the credentials of their chosen charity or nonprofit organisation and detailing their goals and aspirations for the forthcoming year. Applicants don’t have long as entries close in mid February.
“This is a direct investment in people who can make a real difference,” continued Ramana James, Head of the Vodafone Australia Foundation. “We’re constantly amazed by the passion, drive and determination of our winners. Year-after-year we are astounded by what people can achieve for the greater good, once we alleviate the immediate pressures that virtually everyone faces in working to pay the rent or mortgage and bills.”
All entries will be reviewed by the Vodafone Australia Foundation panel, before four successful applicants are announced in March 2008. With salaries (up to $50,000) and an expense budget (up to $25,000) available to each participant, World of Difference gives ordinary Australians the chance to work for their nominated charity or non-profit organisation and live out their dream of changing the world.
Over the past five years, the Vodafone Australia Foundation World of Difference program has helped countless people. Fifteen ordinary Australians have had the opportunity to change their lives in an extraordinary way, committing over 27,300 hours to a variety of causes, without worrying about financial pressures that can often constrain doing good deeds.
Entrants should submit a written application through www.vodafone.com.au/worldofdifference by 08 February. Entries must be 3000 characters or less. Successful applicants will be announced at the end of March 2008 and will have the equivalent of their current salary paid for a year (up to $50,000) and up to $25,000 in expenses. Entry is only open to Australian residents who are aged 18 years or over and who have not been convicted of any criminal offence in the past ten years. Only one entry is permitted per person.
Entrants must be able to start work with their selected charity non-profit organisation in May 2008.
About Vodafone Australia Foundation
The Vodafone Australia Foundation is a charitable trust funded by Vodafone Australia and Vodafone Group Foundation. In line with Vodafone’s core value of ‘passion for the world around us’, the foundation supports local charities and non-profit organisations. The Vodafone Australia Foundation also creates opportunities for Vodafone staff to contribute to the community, an initiative encouraged by Vodafone Australia.
Media Contacts:
Carlie Fowler, Vodafone Australia, PR Manager Mass Markets
Email: carlie.fowler@vodafone.com
Mobile: 0414 209 181
Steve Munachen, Pulse Communications for Vodafone Australia
Email: steve@pulsecom.com.au
Mobile: 0404 014 930