The Andrews Labor Government today launched a new $1.4 million employment program designed to create more than 75 jobs for Aboriginal people across the Goulburn Murray region.
Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan today launched the Algabonyah Employment Partnerships program at the Rumbalara Netball and Football Club in Shepparton.
The program is designed to narrow the workforce participation gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in the region.
The Labor Government will partner with the Algabonyah Community Cabinet and work alongside local businesses to support Aboriginal jobseekers to transition from education and training into work, providing work preparation and personal support.
The program is a direct result of community led actions and the hard work of Algabonyah members to build a strong, evidence-based approach to economic development that has the buy in of both the community and industry.
It will encourage local employers to set a target of at least two per cent employment of Aboriginal people in the private sector.
The Government will also set the same target in public sector agencies and on major government projects across the region.
Data from the 2011 Census puts the unemployment rate for Aboriginal Victorians at more than 14 per cent – about two and a half times higher than the Victorian average.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment, Wade Noonan
“Getting people back to work is about giving them dignity and the opportunity to make a contribution to their community and support their families.”
“We recognise that good outcomes for Aboriginal Victorians will come through community led actions and working in partnerships with local organisations such as Rumbalara Netball and Football Club.”
“I congratulate all those who have been involved in putting this fantastic project together and wish the Algabonyah Community Cabinet members all the best in delivering these jobs.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020