Forget everything you thought you knew about retail jobs. Bunnings Warehouse, Australia's beloved hardware haven, is quietly revolutionising the workplace, creating career paths that span generations and keeping team members for decades.
The family that builds together
Across the country, something remarkable is happening within the orange-aproned walls of Bunnings. Families are working side-by-side, with parents and children, siblings, and even couples choosing to build their careers together at the hardware giant.
Take the remarkable story of the O'Donnell family from Victoria. What started as a part-time job for mum Leanne has blossomed into a true family affair, with her husband and two daughters all joining the Bunnings team.
"We absolutely love it," Leanne shares. "Working with your family might sound challenging to some, but for us, it's been incredible. We understand each other's days, we can debrief together, and we genuinely enjoy each other's company."
Decades of dedication
While many view retail as transient work, Bunnings is proving to be the exception. Team members are measuring their service in decades, not years, with numerous employees celebrating 20, 30, and even 40-year milestones with the company.
Regional operations manager Jason Rimmer embodies this long-term commitment, having progressed through multiple roles over his impressive 25-year journey with the company.
"I started as a casual team member while studying," Jason recalls. "The opportunities here are genuine - I've worked across various departments and locations, growing both personally and professionally."
More than just a job
So what's the secret behind Bunnings' remarkable staff retention? Current and former team members point to several key factors:
- Genuine career progression opportunities across multiple departments
- Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance
- A supportive culture that values every team member
- Comprehensive training and development programs
- The satisfaction of helping customers with their projects
Bunnings managing director Mike Schneider emphasises that their people-first approach isn't just good for employees - it's smart business.
"When you invest in your team, they invest in your customers," Mike explains. "Our team members' knowledge and passion for helping customers with their projects is what sets Bunnings apart."
Building futures, one team member at a time
From school leavers to career-changers and retirees seeking meaningful work, Bunnings has become a surprising destination for Australians seeking more than just a paycheck.
The company's commitment to internal promotion means that many of today's store managers and regional leaders started their journeys on the shop floor, proving that the path to leadership often begins with mastering the paint aisle.
As one long-term team member perfectly summarised: "Bunnings isn't just where I work - it's become part of who I am. The connections I've made with colleagues and customers over the years have turned a job into a career and a workplace into a community."
In an era of job-hopping and gig economy work, Bunnings stands as a testament to the power of creating workplaces where people actually want to build their futures - no power tools required.
