The human resource industry has experienced significant growth over the past decade. Now, more than ever, it is essential for HR professionals to have a firm grasp on key employment issues and an advanced skill set. 

We asked our graduates how the Master of Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations equipped them with the skills to respond to the changes reshaping local and international work practices and policies.

Postgraduate study in human resource management took Simon Popley's career to the next level in coaching. With 20 years of experience, he wanted to expand his knowledge of business and strategy to develop better coaching programs for organisations.

Pham Chung entered a career in industrial relations at the Centre for Industrial Relations Development in 2011, when mitigating industrial disputes was one of the top priorities in Vietnam. 

Pham was awarded an Australia Awards scholarship which enabled her to pursue postgraduate study in Sydney.

Through the Master of Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations, Pham upskilled and developed a deeper understanding of industrial relations in Australia and around the world. She gained knowledge about various industrial relations systems as well as theoretical human resource management frameworks that she can implement in her career as an industrial relations practitioner and manager.

"My time in Sydney has broadened my perspective on the world and provided me with an excellent foundation for my work," Pham says.

Raja Alsaffar is originally from Saudi Arabia. She completed undergraduate studies in health sciences and later decided to add to her skillset with a Master of Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations.

"The program was unique because it enabled me to integrate theoretical studies into the practical experience," Raja says.

"This has supported me to be pro-active with the constant changes in the emerging market and the contemporary style of various talents."

Her career has taken her back home, where she worked in a variety of roles with GE Healthcare - including leading the education and training development for GE Saudi Arabia - followed by a role with Johnson & Johnson, where she drove the global company's regional HR strategy. Raja is currently the senior HR Business Partner lead for Novartis, the multinational pharmaceutical company, in Saudi Arabia.

Raja says her proudest accomplishments include the opportunity to advocate for the talent of others and support those individuals in their career and leadership journeys.

Andrew Milwain is a Human Resources Professional with over 15 years of experience. His career spans a diverse range of sectors including retail, supply chain, aviation, mining and construction.

The program's mix of human resource management and industrial relations drew Andrew in. It was also highly recommended by his colleagues.

"As a HR practitioner, every day presents new challenges," Andrew says. "Whether that is assisting business partners to drive organisational culture change, leading negotiations with the unions, or championing a diversity project, it’s all exciting!"

Andrew currently works as a Senior Culture & People Partner at Woolworths Group Limited.