(Photo: TAFE)
February 2, 2015
South Burnett drought-affected residents are now entitled to no-cost training through TAFE Queensland South West’s “Helping Hand” project to increase their job prospects.
The project, which started in July last year, has had its geographical reach extended so that residents without any formal education beyond a Certificate II qualification can now receive no-cost training if they reside in the South Burnett or Cherbourg council areas, providing they meet the program’s eligibility criteria.
To participate in the program, applicants must:
- Be 15 years of age or over and no longer at school
- Be a Queensland resident or a temporary resident with the necessary visa and work permits on the pathway to permanent residency
- Reside in one of the following areas: South Burnett, Cherbourg, Toowoomba, Western Downs, Southern Downs, Goondiwindi, Maranoa, Balonne, Paroo, Murweh, Quilpie, Darling Downs, Metro region of Somerset, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley.
- Be currently unemployed or underemployed
- Not already hold or be enrolled in a Certificate III or higher qualification
- Not be accessing Australian Government income support and/or employment services (excluding those receiving Farm Household Allowance, who are automatically eligible providing they meet the other criteria).
Margaret Cartmill, who now runs the family’s stud beef cattle operation after her husband passed away two years ago, described Helping Hand as a “lifeline”.
Margaret has taken up a Certificate III in Education Support (Teacher Aide) qualification, to reskill and gain work to complement the family business’ income.
“When times get tough this project gives you a qualification you can use to get employment to help ride out the hard times,” Margaret said.
“Although it was daunting at first; the TAFE teachers and school teachers have been great.
“I think this is a great initiative for farmers to get a qualification regardless of their age,”.
The project’s no-cost training qualifications include teacher aide, early childhood education, community services, disability, and aged care.
With limited training positions available and the project finishing up in July 2015, though, interested residents are encouraged to make their inquiries quickly by calling 1300-914-754 or visiting TAFE online for more information.
“Helping Hand” is a community learning project and is funded by the Queensland Government.
