STEM Returners Australia is proud to announce a new partnership with Sportsbet, one of Australia’s leading technology companies, to launch a returnship program to help experienced STEM professionals restart their careers after a career break.
The pilot will see three experienced returners join Sportsbet’s Technology division in Melbourne through STEM Returners Australia’s proven returnship model, which provides meaningful pathways back into the workforce while helping Sportsbet access a highly skilled and often overlooked talent pool.
Returners will contribute across engineering and technology functions while receiving the support and structure needed to transition back into industry successfully.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to challenging traditional recruitment practices and recognising that career breaks should never define a person’s capability or future potential.
Sportsbet’s Technology team sits at the heart of the business, developing and delivering innovative digital products that support millions of customer interactions. The company is recognised for its collaborative culture, commitment to continuous innovation and focus on building diverse, high-performing teams where people can thrive. Through initiatives such as Women in Tech and its broader diversity and inclusion programs, Sportsbet continues to invest in creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to succeed.
STEM Returners Australia partners with organisations to support experienced STEM professionals returning to work after career breaks for reasons such as caring responsibilities, relocation, illness, military service or other life circumstances. Through a structured 12-week paid program, employers gain experienced professionals while returners have the opportunity to rebuild confidence, update skills and restart meaningful careers.
Since launching in Australia in 2020, STEM Returners has helped over 100 experienced professionals return to STEM careers, with every participant who has completed the program and accepted a permanent role remaining employed beyond their returnship.
Kate Reid, Head of Talent Acquisition, Sportsbet, said:
“At Sportsbet, we’re committed to building diverse, high-performing teams and creating opportunities for talented people from all backgrounds to succeed. Our partnership with STEM Returners reflects our belief that career breaks should never be a barrier to opportunity. We’re excited to welcome STEM Returners into our technology teams, access an exceptional pool of experienced talent, and help build a more inclusive and representative future for our business.”
Marcail Roe, Director of STEM Returners Australia, said:
“We’re incredibly excited to partner with Sportsbet on this pilot program, which demonstrates some of the best talent isn’t always found through traditional recruitment channels. Experienced professionals don’t lose their technical expertise because they’ve taken time away from the workforce. By widening the gate to experienced STEM professionals returning to the workforce, Sportsbet is unlocking an exceptional talent pool while strengthening the diversity and capability of its technology teams with highly motivated professionals who are ready to make an immediate impact.
“We look forward to showcasing the impact this partnership can have for both the business and our returners.”
The Sportsbet partnership marks another important step in STEM Returners Australia’s mission to remove the barriers experienced professionals face when returning to STEM careers and to encourage more employers to rethink how they identify and attract talent.
To view STEM Returners’ opportunities in Australia, visit STEM Returners Australia | Return to STEM Careers
