The Blackrock Redemption: offering jobs and hope to former inmates
If you can’t find the best, you create the best.
Hi-vis reflects employment – practical, sustainable change.
Proud Kamilaroi man and entrepreneur, Steve Fordham, knows what it’s like to hit rock bottom, to face a future without hope. There was a time where depression saw him consider taking his own life, where everything felt like it was closing in.
In that moment Steve realised something that would shape everything that followed – that no one was coming to save him, only himself. And from that day forward, it was never about handouts, only hand ups.
That mindset set him on a journey.
According to Steve, Blackrock Industries commenced in 2016 as a labour hire company with around $20,000 in start-up capital, a tipper truck and two workers in Muswellbrook, New South Wales.
What started small, developed into something much bigger.
That journey has now grown into multiple businesses, employing hundreds of people and creating real opportunity where it didn’t exist before.
Now, just over 10 years later, Blackrock has more than 17 major contract sites delivering projects across Australia and continues to expand its footprint across industries.
Blackrock specialises in services for the mining and civil construction sectors including environmental services, earthworks and site preparation, workforce and equipment hire.
Providing reliable and hands-on services, the business grew rapidly, quickly becoming sustainable and profitable and grossing $2 million in the first 12 months.
“I think when you hit rock bottom, the biggest thing is, there’s only one way up. I gave myself some extra time to see if I could do it; make a difference, set clear targets and reach them,” said Steve.
From the beginning, Blackrock Industries committed to programs and initiatives that assist communities – delivering social value and economic benefit.
Blackrock Industries, alongside Blackroo Community Indigenous Corporation and DreamPath is delivering real, positive and lasting change to people’s lives and future opportunities.
From hygiene and laundry services, to food, school supplies and safe housing, Blackroo supports families, women, children and individuals experiencing hardship through hands-on, practical care.
The Second Chance for Change program supports Indigenous men leaving the prison system, with mentorship, skills training and job opportunities – restoring purpose and dignity.
Over the past decade more than 200 men leaving the prison system have been supported, with approximately 25% of Blackrock’s workforce made up of men who have served jail time.
The overwhelming majority have not reoffended.
“I think we’ve got one of the greatest prison program initiatives in the country and it’s recognised as working. I’ve had many people come out and visit me and they want to work out how we’re doing it. And within a couple of days, they realise – it’s common sense. You are providing an opportunity, genuine employment, giving these men a second chance.”
“Giving it a go and having purpose, that’s what it’s all about. Its purpose that makes us a great nation and makes our people better, but when you don’t have purpose… you’ve got nothing,” said Steve.
Blackrock, Blackroo and DreamPath have been recognised for contributions to workforce solutions, jobs growth and social impact. Steve was recognised as a finalist for the 2024 New South Wales Local Hero as part of the Australian of the Year Awards.
In 2025, Steve was awarded the Sam Tjengala Reuben Award recognising Young Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year at Supply Nation’s Supplier Diversity Awards.
“I think one of the biggest things we lost was opportunity and purpose and that’s the biggest thing that’s been taken away from us. That’s what I want to give back to as many people as I can.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. You can contact 13YARN (13 92 76), or Lifeline Australia (13 11 14).
