Geelong jobseekers to benefit from new Work and Learning Centre
31 May 2012
The Brotherhood of St Laurence and Northern Futures today welcomed the launch of the newest Work and Learning Centre in Geelong, one of five centres funded by the Victorian Government that will assist public housing residents across Victoria to secure jobs and education for work.
The Geelong Work and Learning Centre, at Norlane Community Centre was opened today by the Member for Western Victoria Region, David Koch MP, and will be run by Northern Futures in partnership with the Brotherhood of St Laurence. The service is modeled on the Brotherhood’s flagship Centre for Work and Learning, Yarra, established in Fitzroy in 2009.
Tony Nicholson, Executive Director of the Brotherhood, said: ‘At each Work and Learning Centre, job-seekers are assisted to access a training and employment pathway that’s right for them. It’s all about building a line of sight to a decent job.
‘Despite the significant barriers to employment our job-seekers face, many of them remain highly motivated to secure work. For most people, finding a good job is the foundation for a good life in which their aspirations for themselves and their families can be achieved.
Justin Giddings, Deputy Chair, Northern Futures, said: ‘Bringing these job-seekers into the workforce is not only good news for them, it’s great news for Geelong employers. The Centre will help employers by working to match their recruitment needs with well-prepared job-seekers.
‘We are excited about the roll-out of this great program and also look forward to working with our local partner, Northern Futures’. Mr Nicholson said.
Work and Learning Advisors will work with participating residents to develop a plan for their journey to employment. Activities include job search support, links to traineeships and apprenticeships, access to training, interview preparation, work experience and assistance with housing and Centrelink.
Local employers and job-seekers are encouraged to contact the Geelong Work and Learning Centre on (0434) 655 360 to find out more.
David Koch, Member for Western Victoria Region, will officially open the Geelong Work and Learning Centre, 10.30am Thursday 31st May 2012, Norlane Community Centre, Windsor Park, Rose Avenue, Norlane.
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