The Andrews Labor Government is supporting improved education and training opportunities for disengaged youth.
Minister for Training and Skills, Steve Herbert, today met with representatives from Gippsland’s Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLENs), including Baw Baw Latrobe LLEN, Gippsland East LLEN and South Gippsland Bass Coast LLEN to discuss how Labor Government funding can best meet the needs of disengaged young people.
The recent 2015-16 Victorian Budget provided funding certainty to LLENs, allocating $32 million over four years to support LLENs to continue working with young people who are disengaged – or at risk of disengaging – from education and training, to help them get skills and get a job.
The Labor Government will extensively consult with LLENs and other stakeholders such as schools, youth services, employers and local government, over the coming months, to ensure that LLENs meet the pressing need to address youth unemployment and disengagement from education, training and employment.
TAFE cuts hit regional Victoria the hardest. The Budget invests $300 million to complete the TAFE Rescue Fund, as well as an additional $50 million for the TAFE Back to Work Fund, both of which will help regional campuses like Federation Training find their feet, offer more courses and connect students with local businesses.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills, Steve Herbert
“Every young person deserves the chance to reach their potential, and that is why we are supporting Local Learning and Employment Networks to focus on programs that help at-risk youth to engage with education and employment.
“The $32 million in funding provided in the Budget will enable LLENs to help our most vulnerable youth to stay at school, participate in training or find work, and is essential to help restore opportunities to young people across our state.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing
“Gippsland's Local Learning and Employment Networks make a significant contribution to the community and the economy.”
“Over the past four years, too many young people have packed up and left home in search of jobs. That’s why we’re investing in schools, skills and local industries, to get regional cities and towns back to work.”
“Dedicated regional funds will create the jobs of the future, while the TAFE Rescue Fund will ensure our kids can get the training they need for the job they want.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020