Conpower

Phil Jackson is the director of Indigenous Civil Group (ICG).  ICG is recognised as a 100 per cent Indigenous-owned civil construction and labour hire business, leading the way as an employer of Indigenous personnel.

Phil has worked with CPP on projects like MOPS Mortlake and Koorangie with further projects in the works.  I sat down with Phil to discuss adapting and growing within the energy space, genuine indigenous inclusivity and being competitive within the market. 

“Finding companies with common goals that are genuinely doing the right thing is very important to me…I’ve formed strong relationships with the likes of Ian Hartnett who has created further opportunities for ICG at CPP…”

Phil’s unique balance of Indigenous mentoring, development and extensive construction expertise, gained over 30 years, make him well positioned to meet the demands of both Indigenous Engagement and Construction practicalities.

ICG offer various services such as:

• Civil Engineering: ICG provide significant input into engineering, solutions, ranging from construction methodology reviews through to practical on ground supervision and guidance in project delivery.
• Plant Hire: inclusive of Excavators, Bulldozers, Wheel Loaders, Integrated Tool, Carriers, Dump Trucks, Compactors, Rollers and Graders supplied with highly skilled operators that focus on Safety and Productivity.
• Workforce Services & Industrial Relations:  solid knowledge of the current FWA Act and the Code of Compliance, we ensure that all our employment and employee agreements meet all relevant legislation requirements.

Upskilling his team is of the highest importance and something that Phil is extremely proud of is creating opportunities for Indigenous men and women.  ICG ensures all workers feel supported and valued.

“The Koorangie project was the first opportunity I have had to work back on country since starting my business in 2019. It’s been coincidental but extremely rewarding for me as a Yorta Yorta man to be working on a project that is helping provide a better and more sustainable future on the lands of my ancestors, the Yorta Yorta.”

“I look at things differently with my experience in the industry, being on the project side of the fence, understanding client needs and expectations, I train individuals so that they can do what is required and have an awareness of the client…

Seeing people flourish is very rewarding. Nurturing people and upskilling them is one of the best parts of my work.”

Phil has started a secondary business, Indigenous Civil Services so that his team can work within the major infrastructure EBA and enterprise, urban development, and subdivision space. 

“This means my team can give clients and employees continuity.”

Phil prides himself and his business in being easy to deal with, recognising client needs and having experience in multiple facets of the industry including HR and procurement.

“The CPP team are really genuine and down to earth in the way they work.  They’re delivering and building jobs with their contractors. It’s really refreshing because CPP aren’t about ticking boxes or meeting social targets, they are just looking for trustworthy skilled people to work with.”

ICG and CPP are complimented by shared values and genuine authenticity. 

Ian Hartnett, was quick to make comment on the character and work ethic that Phil displays:

“We came across Phil when looking for a supplier for Site setup facilities on MOPS> James Fitzpatrick came across him and organised a meeting with him. James and I went across to his Laverton office where we had an initial meeting to discuss his companies capabilities and how they would align with our requirements. Straight off the bat Phil was extremely warm and welcoming. It was evident that Phil was there to not only provide equipment but also a service not like any other. We decided to use Phil on the site facilities for MOPS and passed on his contacts to the Koorangie BESS team, where Phil has been more than happy several times to make the trip to site to check in and deliver items in person. You don’t come across nicer people than Phil. Such a gentleman, and always happy to have a yarn and pass on knowledge of his ancestors.”

– Ian Hartnett, Construction Manager VIC