Two new employment facilitators will help connect employers and job seekers in Bendigo and Ballarat, funded through the Morrison Government’s $276 million Local Jobs Program.
Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business Stuart Robert said the Morrison Government is investing in targeted solutions to ensure employers and employees in regional communities connect to create local solutions to workforce challenges.
“Employment Facilitators across the nation will be an integral part of the Australian Government’s skills-led economic recovery,” Minster Robert said.
“The Australian Government is committed to helping local communities come up with local solutions, bringing together businesses, trainers and educators to develop projects that deliver real-world opportunities.”
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the Local Jobs Program aims to help create new opportunities, particularly for young people and Indigenous job seekers said.
‘As our regions emerge from lockdowns and significant disruption to trade, it’s essential we create opportunities for businesses to connect with the skilled workers they need, and job seekers can once again gain meaningful employment,” Senator Henderson said.
“Opportunities for job seekers and employers alike will present in industries ranging from manufacturing, construction, education and hospitality as our tourism sector bounces back.”
- Bendigo’s new employment facilitator is Mr Chris Booth, with more than 20 years of management experience and a deep understanding of Bendigo’s local labour market.
- Ballarat’s new employment facilitator Ms Margi Cousins will work side-by-side with local businesses, training providers and job seekers to create more pathways into the region’s growth industries such as manufacturing, health care and social assistance, construction, retail trade and education and training.
The Local Jobs Program was extended in the 2021-22 Budget to 30 June 2025 and is expanding from 25 Employment Regions to cover all 51 Employment Regions across Australia, more than doubling the number of facilitator services on the ground around the country.
More details can be found at: www.dese.gov.au/local-jobs-program
28 September 2019