The Andrews Labor Government is supporting Dandenong locals to access formal training, with a funding boost of more than $997,000 for Jesuit Community College from the Reconnect Program.
The Victorian Budget 2016/17 included $20 million for the Reconnect Program to support young people who left school early or who are long-term unemployed prepare for training and work.
Jesuit Community College will use its funding to engage and support both early school leavers and the long term unemployed get into formal training.
Case workers and outreach and engagement workers will work with students to undertake skills and jobs assessments and create plans to engage and prepare participants for skills training and work.
The college will also deliver the program in St Albans, Hoppers Crossing, Richmond, South Melbourne and Collingwood.
The Labor Government is addressing disadvantage and promoting equity, helping those who have left school early or are long term unemployed to reconnect with training.
The number of early school leavers in the Greater Dandenong area not in the labour force, employment or training is currently at 7.4 per cent which is above the state average.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert
“Often young people lack the confidence and skills to get into formal training, this extra funding will make sure there is support in place so vulnerable young people can improve their lives.”
“We’re helping early school leavers take a step forward to get back into training, education and into a job.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams
“This is a big win for our community and I look forward to seeing how Jesuit Community College will build on the good work they’re already doing.”
“We’re helping breakdown the barriers stopping early school leavers from accessing training.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020