Every weeknight from 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm at least one cleaner and occasionally a supervisor turn up for work at the Armadale Court.
The cleaning team is supplied by Australian Disability Enterprises member Intelife Group who offer disabled workers career opportunities and development and help them to become financially independent.
Clerk of Court Rick Pugh said it could be challenging work, with drug-affected court-users detained in the cell block sometimes creating such a mess with bodily fluids and worse that the cleaners have to don special suits, not to mention masks and gloves.
The cleaners also make sure the three courtrooms, the offices and waiting rooms are spotless.
One of them has been doing this work since 2014.
When Intelife's contract was about to expire recently, Rick felt the social benefits of exploring an extension balanced well with the interests of the Department.
"I asked for an exemption from the State Supply Commission Open and Effective Competition Policy for approval to invite Intelife to submit another tender for the Armadale Courthouse cleaning contract," Rick said.
"They did tender – and the contract was awarded to them. They will continue to clean here at least until we get the brand new facility towards the end of 2021.
"They represent value for money and provide services of a good standard. If we ever pinpoint things we want improved, they improve."
Rick and his team occasionally meet the cleaners but he said he is glad Armadale can offer them the chance to feel pride in their work, to feel accepted and to gain a sense of independence.
Senior Procurement Officer Debra Watson said the original Armadale Courthouse contract was one of the first Government contracts won by Intelife.
"The organisation's success with Armadale has given them confidence to tender for other Government jobs," she said.
"I'm glad the Department of Justice has been able to help this supported workforce while benefiting from the great work they do."
Print this page
