The Andrews Labor Government is creating 500 new jobs to strengthen the disability and aged care workforce as part of a program to help Victorians develop new skills and find secure work.

Minister for Employment Ben Carroll met with jobseekers set to begin a rewarding new career thanks to a $5.9 million partnership between Jobs Victoria, and RMIT’s Workforce Innovation and Development Institute (WIDI).

For Mary-Ann Bitsakas, the program has not only secured her a new role as an aged care support worker, but it has also given her a new sense of purpose.

Mary-Ann is currently completing a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) with RMIT while working with Wintringham in the Williamstown Hostel in Melbourne.

The program has so far placed 224 workers into disability and aged care jobs to help address significant workforce shortages in those sectors.

Recruits gain secure employment for 12 months, as well as paid training at the RMIT College of Vocational Education to complete a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) or a Certificate IV in Disability.

Jobs are being prioritised for people who may benefit from extra assistance to find work, such as women aged 45 and over, young people 18 to 25 and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For more information visit jobs.vic.gov.au or call the Jobs Victoria hotline on 1300 208 575.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment Ben Carroll

“This program is creating hundreds of jobs for Victorians and providing much needed carers and support workers for people living with a disability or aged care residents.”

“We know disability and aged care employers are facing staff shortages, that’s why we’re supporting more people to gain new skills and get secure jobs working in an industry that is vital to our state’s future.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Lizzie Blandthorn

“This program has been a major boost to the disability and aged care sectors, providing much-needed staff who will make real difference in people’s lives.”

Quote attributable to WIDI Senior Program Manager Lesley Bridge

“Employers in the disability and aged care sector are facing significant workforce shortages and this project provides innovative ways to recruit new people into the sector.”

Quote attributable to case study Mary-Ann Bitsakas

“It’s really rewarding being able to help the elderly and being able to give back to them. It just feels great.”