To give recognition to Tamworth businesses that value human resources (HR), Tamworth Regional Development Corporation (TRDC) has launched a new award.

The award for excellence in human resource management will be given to the most deserving business or organisation on September 12.

It will be a part of the 2008 Joblink Plus Quality Business Awards, presented by the Tamworth and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and is the first of its kind for the annual awards.

TRDC executive director Jo Byrnes said the local job market was now favouring employees.

“With skills shortages being a front-of-mind issue for the local market, businesses are facing more and more intense competition in hiring and retaining the right people,” Ms Byrnes said.

“Not only are there a range of opportunities locally for employees to choose from but also attractive national and even global opportunities to consider.

“As our economy moves with global trends, corporate knowledge is increasingly the point of competitive difference.

“More and more local businesses are realising that what their staff know and how they use and share that knowledge is the key to business growth and development.

“These businesses recognise their most valuable asset is their employees and are changing their business practices to ensure better employee engagement.”

All organisations are welcome to apply and don’t need to have an HR staff member to be in the running.

The award recipient will also win a free place on TRDC’s business coaching program, Staffing for Success in a Competitive Labour Market, worth almost $2000.

Applications close August 15. Visit www.tamworthregion.com.au for information.