Opendoor’s Be Deadly Jobs Expo returned yesterday bigger and stronger than ever, uniting more than 500 people at the Aborigines Advancement League on Wurundjeri Country to celebrate culture, strengthen community, and explore work and training opportunities.
From the moment the event started, the venue pulsed with life, parents with children, teenagers in school uniforms, employers mingling with one another, and people from all walks of life moving between stalls. The energy in the room reflected not just the scale of the event, but also the conversations, stories, and connections taking place.
The day began in deep respect. Simone and Mark, children of well-respected Elder Aunty Zeta, led a smoking ceremony before Opendoor’s Indigenous Employment Coordinator, Mark D, and Victoria Police invited all to pause for a minute’s silence in honour of the two police officers who were killed in Porepunkah last week.
Aunty Zeta and her son Mark then officially opened the event, reminding us of its importance:
“This job fair is important for our Mob. It gives opportunity for people to do their choice of work.”
Leigh Saunders, Co-CEO of the Aborigines Advancement League, spoke with pride about the League’s legacy as the oldest Aboriginal organisation in the country, founded in 1957:
“We should be proud of all the leaders who have been part of this amazing place… Without organisations like this, so many of our families would be missing something. This place gave me belonging as a young fella, it strengthened my identity and helped me find who I was.”
He reflected on the land itself, once a rubbish tip, now transformed into a place of cultural strength and pride. His words carried the heart of the day:
“Today is about sharing your story, making sure you connect with each other, and knowing where you belong.”
Speaking on behalf of Opendoor, Melissa Lee, Group Manager Employment Services, honoured Mark D’s vision and creativity as the driving force behind the annual event, and expressed gratitude to everyone who made the day such a success. She reflected on the significance of this year’s milestone:
“It’s incredibly humbling to share this place with so many people. It has such a rich history and provides a safe space for us to connect and think about the future. This is our fourth Be Deadly Jobs Expo — but our first as Opendoor. Our new name reflects new beginnings, and today is about creating opportunities and connections that bring job seekers, employers and community together. With more than 500 people here, this is proof that the Be Deadly Jobs Expo is growing stronger every year.”
Cultural pride was also alive in performance. Nunkeri Tiddas, three young women from Thornbury High School, shared their passion for storytelling through dance:
“Our dances come from the stories told by our Elders or from what we’ve learned on our own journeys.”
Each from different tribes, their performance showed how shared vision and passion can create something powerful when brought together.
Brett Watkins from Culture Evolves led a minute’s silence for those who continue to lose their lives in custody, before offering a moving didgeridoo and dance tribute to those protecting sacred sites and culture.
The day was also filled with encouragement for attendees. Ana from Jarrah Integrated Services, who generously provided catering for the event, reminded participants:
“Your culture is not something to hide, it is a strength. Employers are looking for people who bring different perspectives, community understanding, and cultural knowledge.”
In addition to the catering, Ana and Jarrah Integrated Services provided a special Indigenous gift box for all employers and guest speakers. Loco for Cocoa also contributed a thoughtful gift of Indigenous chocolates, adding to the community spirit that defined the day.
Before the Expo floor fully opened to the 50+ employers, Mark D reflected:
“I hope today helps community, helps Mob. The more employers we have here, the more opportunities there are for everyone.”
The Be Deadly Jobs Expo has once again proven itself to be so much more than a jobs fair. It is a day to honour and celebrate culture, strengthen identity, build meaningful connections, and show what’s possible when we support each other and work together. We’re already looking forward to next year.