HESTA is an industry super fund for health and community services. Since 1987, HESTA has grown to become one of the largest super-funds dedicated to this sector. Today HESTA have more than 800,000 members and $33 billion in assets. Industry super funds are designed to benefit members and not profit from them, which is what HESTA’s workplace culture aims to reflect, thereby attracting people who share their core values.

From the day an employee commences working at HESTA, their professional growth and development is nurtured, encouraged and supported. All new employees attend a two day, structured Induction Program, featuring the HESTA CEO and whole executive team who meet with new employees and talk about their departmental structures, responsibilities, challenges for the year ahead and how they are connected to HESTA’s members. HESTA have placed a heavy emphasis on learning, particularly through volunteering programs, which are seen as a different and beneficial way of fostering skill development through unique experiences. Employees are encouraged to take up to six days of volunteer leave in a skilled volunteer placement, which is also complimented by external learning scholarships awarded to the value of $10,000.

With a focus on change, innovation has been important to HESTA in the past 12 months. Employees have been asked to challenge what they do every day to see if there is a way to improve efficiency and effectiveness in all areas of the organisation. Nominations are taken quarterly for the HESTA Innovation Award, which recognises employees who have identified and accounted changes that have had a significant impact on the organisation and HESTA members. Employees are also offered a range of benefits to further recognise their contributions, including a 35-hour work week, additional annual leave and generous superannuation contributions.

With an understanding that productive, healthy employees produce better outcomes for members, HESTA have designed offices with open-plan collaboration areas, quiet areas and an abundance of natural light. Additionally, HESTA has committed to the “RUOK?” program, which provides employees with a range of tools, training and support to help their fellow employees stay on top of their mental health.