HELPING PEOPLE TO GET GREAT LOCAL JOBS IN BRIMBANK
The Allan Labor Government is helping people to get great jobs – near where they live – through a local Mentors program that is assisting people who have found it difficult to get work.
Minister for Employment Vicki Ward today announced that Jobs Victoria’s Mentors program is now working with more than 4,000 individuals across the state, as part of a $35 million investment in targeted employment services.
The Jobs Victoria Mentors program is available in five areas – including the City of Brimbank – and is helping people who need it most while addressing local workforce shortages. More than 1,000 people have registered in the Brimbank area since October last year.
Jobs Victoria has partnered with eleven local organisations across the state – including Jesuit Social Services, OCTEC and WCIG in Brimbank – to deliver a program that ensures participants get the support they need, followed by a job that’s right for them.
The program works with individuals one-on-one and covers resume writing, job applications and interview preparation. It then connects individuals with local employers who need staff and supports them for the first six months after they start.
While employment services are primarily the responsibility of the Commonwealth, this program fills a gap left by Workforce Australia and is providing support in the areas that need it most. Nearly three quarters of people currently in the program have been unemployed for more than 12 months.
Rachel had previous experience in customer service and administration but was out of work for more than a year after a mental health illness.
On working closely with OCTEC mentor Ben on resume updates and interview techniques, Rachel has secured a job in administration and engagement with a university. Ben continues to provide Rachel with mentorship and support to make sure she is progressing well and managing her mental health.
To find out more about the Jobs Victoria Mentors program visit jobs.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment Vicki Ward
“We’re investing in the Jobs Victoria Mentors program so we can help more Victorians to overcome barriers and find jobs that are meaningful to them.”
“The high take up rate of this program reflects how important these services are and is evidence of the dedicated staff who are supporting these job seekers across the state.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Sydenham Natalie Hutchins
"This program is playing an important role in helping Victorian industry by connecting them with the local skilled workers they need to keep their businesses growing.”
“This is an important local program which prioritises supporting jobseekers from Aboriginal communities who are experiencing high unemployment rates, providing much-needed support and opportunities for economic empowerment.”
Quote attributable to Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman
“The Allan Labor Government is supporting job seekers in the West through the Jobs Victoria Mentors Program. This program is helping people find work in our local community and assisting small businesses find the staff they need.”
Quote attributable to Member for Kororoit Luba Grigorovitch
“This program will assist long-term unemployed people in Kororoit to help find them meaningful and sustainable employment.”
Quote attributable to Member for Laverton Sarah Connolly
“The Jobs Victoria Mentors program will better support locals, who are experiencing long term unemployment, land a job. And not just any job - by working one-on-one with job seekers and employers, this program is all about getting people into work that is meaningful to them and therefore more likely to deliver the dignity of work that every Victorian needs and deserves.”
Quote attributable to Member for Niddrie Ben Carroll
"This has been such a valuable program in Niddrie that's helping both individuals and business. It not only supports locals searching for employment, but helps employers fill gaps in their workforce."
