Early school leavers and the long-term unemployed living in Melbourne’s west will have more access to the training and support they need to get a job thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney today visited Westgate Community Initiatives Group to announce they have received more than $1 million to deliver the Skills FirstReconnect program.

The program will target around 200 marginalised and disengaged learners with complex needs in Maribyrnong Brimbank, Moonee Valley, Melton, Wyndham and Hobsons Bay.

Westgate Community Initiatives Group is one of 27 Learn Locals and TAFEs sharing in $19.8 million to support almost 3000 Victorians.

Participants in Westgate Community Initiatives Group’s Skills First Reconnect program will receive tailored support, including the development of a learning and achievement plan, and one-on-one sessions with Reconnect Coaches.

Participants will be supported to enrol in accredited courses that develop their core skills in areas such as literacy and numeracy, and vocational skills training, through Learn Locals and TAFEs.

They will also be supported to undertake workplace learning and to secure paid employment.

The Skills First Reconnect program is an extension to the Back to Work Reconnect grant program established in response to a decline in the number of young, early school leavers enrolling in vocational education and training.

The program has also expanded eligibility to support high need learners aged between 17-64 years with low levels of prior educational attainment.

Through Skills First, the Labor Government is overhauling Victoria’s training and TAFE system, guaranteeing funding to secure the future of TAFE and making sure Victorians have the right skills for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney

“Reconnect is making things fair by giving every Victorian, no matter their postcode or background, access to the training and support they need to get a job.”

“This funding will mean people living in Melbourne’s west get the support they need to take the next step in their education or career.”

Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Marsha Thomson

“We’re helping early school leavers and the long-term unemployed in Footscray and surrounds access the education and training they need to get a job.”