5000 jobs in 50 days: 10,000 jobs pledged, two weeks yet to go

MORE than 10,000 first-time jobs have been pledged to News Corp’s 5000 jobs in 50 days campaign, doubling the target with still almost two weeks to go.

News Corp's 5000 Jobs in 50 Days campaign has doubled its target, reaching a bit over 10,000 jobs. Domino's has pushed the tally over with 2500 jobs immediately available. Here Katie Armstrong embarks on her first job at Domino's Hamilton. Picture: Adam Armstrong.

MORE than 10,000 first-time jobs have been pledged to News Corp’s 5000 jobs in 50 days campaign, doubling the target with still almost two weeks to go.

Domino’s is the latest big-hitter to get on board the campaign which aims to tackle high youth unemployment by encouraging employers to give inexperienced workers a go.

The pizza chain has 2500 jobs immediately available across Australia — mostly part-time and casual positions as delivery drivers and pizza makers.

Jobseekers can apply for in-store roles from age 15 and delivery roles from 16 at stores with electric bikes or 19 when driving a car.

Domino’s Group chief executive and managing director Don Meij began his working life as a pizza delivery driver 29 years ago in Redcliffe, Queensland before climbing ranks via management roles and as a franchisee.

“I always say when a team member walks in the door they could be one of our next managers or franchisees because they all start as delivery drivers and pizza makers,” he said.

“It’s an exciting time at Domino’s and we are seeing some incredible early results from the new menu.

“From Darwin to Tasmania and from Western Australia to Brisbane or Sydney, we are hiring at the moment.”

Domino’s is also planning to almost double its stores in the next four to five years, increasing from about 715 to 1200.

Between now and Christmas alone Mr Meij expects an extra 1000 jobs will be created on top of the immediate 2500 jobs as the first of the new stores open.

Katie Armstrong, 22, began working at Domino’s seven years ago and is now shift supervisor at the Hamilton (Qld) store.

“I put my name down at a couple of Domino’s stores around me. The same day they called me back,” she said.

“I am currently working while studying (psychology) but I would also like to work in head office one day.”

Ms Armstrong said her job helped improved her people skills, ability to deal with conflict and work ethic — all attributes she planned to take forward with her in her career.

Do you have a job for a first-time jobseeker? Email [e-mail] to join the campaign.

Jobseekers can visit facebook.com/5000jobs to find vacancies in their area.

Originally published as 5000 jobs in 50 days: 10,000 jobs pledged, two weeks yet to go