Renee finds her confidence at New iMAGE Laundry
When an employer knocks back your job application, it’s natural to want to know why. Not only do you want to improve future applications, but you also crave a sense of closure.
So, imagine how 44-year-old Renee Katts felt when years of submitting job applications amounted to nothing: no interviews, no jobs, no explanations.
“It’s a bit disheartening,” Renee said. “It weighs your confidence down.”
But in late 2025, that all changed when Renee put her hat in the ring for a job at New iMAGE Laundry. The Bundaberg-based social enterprise, which has been part of IMPACT Community Services since 2013, gives job opportunities to people facing employment barriers.
Instead of advertising positions on the open jobs market, New iMAGE Laundry recruits people through IMPACT’s programs and other local service partners. That’s how it reaches people like Renee, whose IMPACT Case Manager told her about the opportunity and encouraged her to apply.
“I was proud as punch when I finally got the phone call to say you’re starting on this date, so I was really excited,” Renee said.
After being unemployed for so long, it was a big step for Renee when she began at the laundry on Halloween in 2025, but her first impressions couldn’t have been better.
“Everyone was just so welcoming. It’s like a second family from home,” Renee said.
“They’re more than happy to help you, and if you’re not too sure, there’s always someone to give you a helping hand and show you the right way to do things.
“There are a couple of things I haven’t tried yet, but I’m always keen to learn new things.”
New iMAGE LAUNDRY leader Marika Svenson says that Renee has developed in leaps and bounds over her nine months at the laundry.
“When Renee first started, she was very quiet and didn’t speak unless you asked her a question,” Marika said.
“Now, Renee has grown in confidence within herself and her abilities.
“Learning new tasks is no longer a daunting process for Renee, and she tackles new tasks with a willingness to learn new skills.”
Marika said that the laundry’s culture of teamwork and giving people a chance has played a significant role in Renee’s progression, helping her learn what she’s capable of.
“Renee now has the confidence to contribute to toolbox talks and make suggestions with new ideas,” Marika said.
“She is also willing to help at our monthly BBQs and brings in food to share with the team.
“Renee has really found her niche and has become a valued member of our team.”
For Renee, reaching that point took years. She has a long history with IMPACT, having accessed employment support through the not-for-profit organisation’s Workforce Australia program on and off since 2013.
Back then, however, Renee wasn’t ready to re-enter the workforce.
“At the time, I was in Brisbane because my eldest daughter was 16 weeks early, so I was stuck down there for three months.
“That was a very difficult time because she was so tiny and that was my main priority.
“We were told we’d only have a 60% chance of her coming home and living a normal, happy life.”
Renee decided to pause job hunting while she focused on her family. Fast forward ten years to 2023, and while Renee’s daughter was thriving, Renee’s career wasn’t.
After several months in hospitality, changes in the workplace left Renee looking for work again.
Renee was back to square one, but her IMPACT Case Manager was there to help. She encouraged Renee to complete her Certificate III in Hospitality and Responsible Service of Alcohol training through IMPACT to boost her job prospects.
After graduating in February 2024, Renee once again started job hunting, but she didn’t have any joy, which ultimately led her to the laundry.
While New iMAGE Laundry isn’t the workplace Renee envisaged for herself when she finished her studies, she wouldn’t change anything about how it has all panned out.
“I wouldn’t mind staying here as long as I can. I’m quite happy here,” Renee said.
“A lot of people said to me that I’m a different person when I’m working. I’m a lot more cheerful and a lot happier.”
Renee’s story shows the difference that opportunity can make. To learn more about employment pathways through New iMAGE Laundry or ways to support the social enterprise, visit www.newimagelaundry.com.au
