The Andrews Labor Government is backing a ground-breaking disability employment program that’s helping young Victorians living with a disability get the skills they need to find a job.
Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll today visited the Royal Children’s Hospital to announce a grant for the pilot program – to help more Victorians with a disability find work.
The program is a partnership between the Royal Children’s Hospital and Holmesglen Institute of TAFE and is helping 10 students with a disability complete a Certificate I in Work Education.
The training involves internships at the hospital in three nine-week rotations, with students working across a wide range of departments – including the hospital’s Central Sterilising Supply unit supporting Instrument Technicians with cleaning, disinfecting and sterilising reusable medical instruments and equipment.
The participants also work in the hospital’s Family Services department – helping staff and volunteers provide families with respite, by playing with patients and their siblings.
The grant is part of the Labor Government’s $90 million Jobs Victoria program, which provides tailored services to support and connect jobseekers who face barriers to employment with supportive employers.
Since it started in 2016, Jobs Victoria program has placed more than 8000 people into jobs – for more information visit jobs.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll
“Work means much more than a regular pay check – it creates a sense of purpose and can change people’s lives.”
“This program is making a real difference to the lives of young Victorians with disability – giving them real hands on experience so they can find work.
Reviewed 19 August 2020