[0:00]Hello, my name is Paul and I have been asked to introduce an important video for you from our CEO and president, Mr. Greg Smith. I hope you enjoy it and find it informative. It has been an extraordinary few weeks in Australia as we've witnessed the devastating impact of the fires across the country. For those of us working here at IBM, the bush fires are much more than just a media story. The fires have affected many of our employees, our clients, our business partners and their families. And on behalf of the entire IBM Australia New Zealand team, I'd like to extend our deepest sympathies to all who have been impacted and our sincere gratitude to all the first responders and those who are helping in the recovery efforts. This is very much a whole of country recovery and it's going to take time. IBM has committed assistance to help those affected by the fires and to support the rebuilding of communities through the various programs that we have.
[1:03:00]Our corporate social responsibility program is the IBM Service Corps.
[1:08:00]This program has been running for over 10 years and we have sent over 4,000 of our best and brightest to some of the most challenged parts of the world.
[1:18:00]And we're going to bring that program here to Australia.
[1:21:00]We will be supporting a cohort of participants to deploy in the field to assist in the recovery efforts in the coming months and years.
[1:30:00]The program will involve IBM employees working closely with government, not for profits, businesses and communities as they focus on long-term recovery efforts.
[1:40:00]Our first program in Australia will deploy in late March to focus on the economic and social recovery of communities and small businesses in the affected regions.
[1:52:00]This is a meaningful way for us to make an impact where it's needed most.
[1:57:00]We also recognize the importance of mental health and wellbeing for our employees and their families during these challenging times.
[2:05:00]And our employee assistance program is available to all employees and their families 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
[2:14:00]The past few weeks have been incredibly difficult, but it has been truly inspiring to see how communities have come together and supported each other.
[2:24:00]On behalf of IBM, I'd like to acknowledge all the incredible individuals and organizations and governments working to get Australia back on its feet.
[2:34:00]Thank you.
