Youth Projects Visit to CityLink Contract – Building the Next Generation of Civil Workers

04/09/2025

Downer was proud to host Youth Projects at our CityLink contract this week, opening the doors to young people eager to explore a career in civil infrastructure. The day combined learning, hands-on activities, and one-on-one interviews - with the potential to offer up to six candidates a place on our civil day shift team preparing for operation of West Gate Tunnel once it opens.

Partnering for Opportunity Youth Projects is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping young people overcome barriers to employment. Together, we’ve identified suitable candidates who could thrive within our operations, while also supporting our commitment to building a more diverse workforce and creating long-term career pathways. 

A Day of Insights and Engagement Participants gained a firsthand look at life at Downer through a dynamic and informative program. The day began with a welcome from Stuart Billing, EGM Transport & Infrastructure Australia, who introduced Downer’s operations and our role on CityLink. A team leader shared their career journey, highlighting the growth opportunities available through dedication. In a group safety scenario, participants collaborated to solve a challenge, demonstrating teamwork and problem-solving skills. A control room tour offered a behind-the-scenes view of live operations and the complexity of managing one of Melbourne’s busiest roads. Each participant also had a one-on-one interview with our recruitment and operations team, providing a chance to make a strong impression. The day concluded with an open Q&A and a summary of the next steps in the recruitment process. 

The day was well received by participants. One commented, “I wish all employers were as friendly as Downer during interviews. If they were, we’d all be employed.” That sentiment highlights just how impactful this partnership can be. 

Hugh Brown, Contract Delivery Manager, said, “By partnering with Youth Projects, Downer is striving to achieve a step-change in our recruitment demographics. This initiative is not just about filling roles, it’s about investing in people, creating meaningful career pathways, and building a strong and inclusive culture that will shape the future of our workforce.” 

Alanna Solole, Senior Manager Maintenance at Transurban, said: “This is a great initiative between Youth Project and Downer. There’s a lot going on behind the scenes to keep a major road like CityLink operating safely and smoothly, and we hope the group were inspired by what they learned and excited by the range of exciting career opportunities in the civil crew.” 

We look forward to welcoming successful candidates to the team and supporting them as they begin their civil careers on one of Victoria’s most significant infrastructure projects.