STEPHEN Batterham had nothing but positive things to say about his experience with indigenous employees which is why he has joined with Mission Australia in their Indigenous Employment Strategy.

As owner of Warwick Sandblast and Powder Paint, Mr Batterham has had previous indigenous employees and said getting involved with this initiative was good for the community.

"Some people in the area discriminate against employing indigenous people but I find them very good and eager," he said.

"Mission Australia is very helpful and, when they help someone get a job, they check up on them and follow it through."

Mr Batterham encouraged other businesses in the Southern Downs to join the initiative to help Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander members of the community march into the workforce.

Queensland IES sales representative Catriona Arthy said now was the time to hire indigenous workers because they were the way of Warwick's future.

"The indigenous working age population is growing at almost double the rate of the total working age population," Ms Arthy said.

"The ageing population is particularly evident in Warwick where there are less than two people of working age for every person over the age of 65.

"Indigenous people, now more than ever, are the workforce of the future in Warwick," she said.

Other businesses joining IES include APN Print, Wickham Freight Lines, Southern Downs Regional Council and Canterbury Meats.

GET INVOLVED

To get involved with IES, phone Mission Australia on 131124.