Community organisations can now apply for funding to support local jobs, thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work program.

The most recent round of the highly successful program saw $42 million of funding go to more than 200 projects, assisting around 5,000 Queenslanders to gain job-ready skills and training.

In Caboolture, leading local community responsive organisation Better Together was awarded $220,100 to assist 66 jobseekers gain skills and experience to equip them for work in the community, aged care and disability sectors. Participants completed a Certificate III in Individual Support.

One of the participants was Liam Cessford, a 22-year-old, who upon returning from his working holiday overseas, had no idea what he wanted to do with his life. He decided to give the Better Pathways Program a go and study the Certificate III in Individual Support. Liam completed the accredited training and his placement as an in-home/community access Independent Support Worker, and as a Teacher Aide at the Caboolture Special School. He was very excited when offered a job, not only from the family he supported, but also with the Caboolture Special School. Liam now has a goal to further his education and become a Special Needs Teacher.

The second round of Skilling Queenslanders for Work is now open, and applications close on 8 October 2020.

State member for Morayfield Mark Ryan said that while the economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic were being felt worldwide, the Palaszczuk Government was investing in jobs and training to support local people in these challenging times.

“The key element of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery is supporting local jobs, and it’s wonderful to see the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program providing people here in the Caboolture region the skills to get a job.

“The fact that young Liam has been offered two jobs in the local area is a testament to the success of this program.

“The Palaszczuk Government has delivered record investment in training and we can see the results right here in our own backyard.”

Community based not-for-profit organisations, local councils and school Parent and Friends or Parent and Citizens associations are encouraged to check eligibility requirements for the program.

The Skilling Queenslanders for Work program equips participants with accredited qualifications, and participants are linked to a job and complete their training while working.

Seventy-three per cent of participants find work, take on further training or return to school around 12 months after exiting a Skilling Queenslanders for Work project.

 For further information visit www.qld.gov.au/skillingqueenslanders or call 1300 369 935.