The Queensland Government has kick started the new year with assistance for up to 7,020 vulnerable job seekers thanks to a $51.7 million investment in targeted and tailored training and employment pathways.
Seven local organisations, coordinating 12 projects in the Bundaberg Region have been funded as part of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program.
Included in the region’s projects are three that will be delivered by IMPACT Community Services as part of the Get Set for Work and Community Work Skills programs.
IMPACT Community Services General Manager Innovation Nathan Spruce said the organisation was grateful to the Queensland Government for the invaluable funding, which strengthens their ability to improve the lives of young people aged 15-19 years.
“The ‘Future Skillz 2.4’ project, as part of Get Set 4 Work which IMPACT has been successfully delivering for a number of years, will provide tailored education and training opportunities that build resilience and improve employability, while taking into consideration each person’s unique circumstances and goals,” Nathan said.
“Get Set 4 Work Youth Coach Mary Long is passionate about working with young people and seeing their confidence grow as they achieve their goals.
“The program doesn't solely focus on specific industries; instead, it aims to connect young people to opportunities that align with their individual interests.”
Other locally funded projects will be delivered by Gidarjil Development Corporation, Skill360, Tom Quinn Community Centre, The Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch, Angels Community Group and Reclink Australia.
Skilling Queenslanders for Work is one of the Government’s most successful job creating initiatives, assisting unemployed and underemployed Queenslanders to gain skills, qualifications and experience to either enter or remain in the workforce.
More than $684 million has been committed to the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative since 2015, which has helped to secure the workforce of industries like construction, primary industries, hospitality and community services.
In this new round of Skilling Queenslanders for Work, 225 community-based organisations across Queensland will receive grants to help participants to overcome barriers such as social isolation, learning difficulties and mental health, while providing the skills and experience necessary to transition them to further education and employment.
Minister for Training and Skills Development Lance McCallum Queensland businesses needed skilled employees across the board, and the funding would deliver the training needed in areas of demand.
“This funding will see 7,020 job seekers supported to find work, particularly in priority industries like healthcare and tourism,” he said.
“The organisations receiving fundings understand their communities and their workforce needs and can make vital connections between job seekers and employers.
“More than half of all participants are young people aged 15-24, almost 1 in 5 identify as First Nations, and more than 12 per cent of participants are people with disability.”
A full list of successful recipients in this round of funding is available here.
