Bunnings – known for its snags and excellent straw hats – is making a big move when it comes to who can sport the retail chain’s forest-green aprons.

CEO Mike Schneider told 10 News+ he supports hiring reformed criminals and is open to giving them a chance to work at Bunnings stores.

It’s an idea that Schneider discussed on a podcast with Judo, a young man who spent 4½ years behind bars for a home invasion.

After his release almost two years ago, Judo was eager to make an honest living.

“I was hungry – I was determined to change my life and do the right thing,” he said.

Stu Holmes, founder of social enterprise The Green Collar, is dedicated to helping people who have been incarcerated to reintegrate in society through work. He said anyone with a criminal record probably wouldn’t get a decent interview compared to other job candidates.

Judo hopes getting a big chain like Bunnings on board could create a shift in norms – a disruption in a cycle that means reformed individuals are funnelled back to lawbreaking when all other doors are shut.

“It shows that one of the biggest companies in Australia is willing to give people like me a chance … that’s massive, you know?”

Watch more from 10 News+ at 10.com.au