June 25, 2018
The Wide Bay Burnett is one of 10 regions across the country which has been targeted for help under a new Federal Government jobs trial.
The $18.4 million Regional Employment Trials Program will enable local organisations, who understand the issues on the ground, to design solutions to employment challenges.
Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien said the region would receive $1 million through a Local Employment Initiative Fund.
This fund will support local employment projects such as mentoring programs and the “upskilling” of people looking for work so they are job ready.
Mr O’Brien welcomed the selection of the Wide Bay Burnett to take part in the trial.
“In a region that has one of the highest rates of unemployment we need to continue to ensure that the government has a full range of initiatives and programs that increase the job prospects of jobseekers, and grow the economy, to sustain employment and create new job opportunities,” Mr O’Brien said.
The program is being administered by Regional Development Australia – Wide Bay Burnett which covers the council areas of the South Burnett, Cherbourg, Gympie, North Burnett, Fraser Coast and Bundaberg.
“The Wide Bay Burnett RDA is highly regarded and has deep connections across the region and I’m pleased this new initiative will utilise the RDA’s expertise with a new focus on jobs,” Mr O’Brien said.
As part of the trial, an Employment Facilitator will be appointed in the Wide Bay Burnett region through a competitive tender process.
The tender opened on Monday and will close on July 18.
Examples of projects that could be funded include:
- Using experienced or retired residents, and local business leaders in a mentoring program
- Preparing job seekers for an upcoming infrastructure project
- Work experience programs that provide local employment opportunities.
RDA Wide Bay Burnett executive officer Scott Rowe said there was a real need in the region and he was pleased it was chosen for the trial.
“We look forward to working with industry to come up with innovative ways to change the employment landscape in the Wide Bay Burnett,” Mr Rowe said.
“We congratulate the Coalition Government on this initiative and hope to see some positive changes during the trial.”
- More information about the program is available online
