Local Recovery Fund projects to provide timely boost for care sector across Western Sydney

Dozens of job seekers across Western Sydney will be trained and prepared for entry-level roles in the disability care sector after two employment projects secured almost $290,000 in federal funding under the Morrison Government’s Local Recovery Fund. 

Global employment group Generation Australia has received funding to deliver online and face-to-face training for job seekers in both the Sydney South West and Greater West Employment Regions. Ten participants have already commenced their intensive six-week training program, which is being supported by the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, AFEA Care Services and Royal Rehab.

Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business, the Hon Stuart Robert MP, said the projects form an important part of the Australian Government’s skills-led economic response to the pandemic.

“Local disability care employers will co-design the training content for these six-week programs, and participants will be given mentoring and support while transitioning from training to employment,” Minister Robert said.

“There will be blended online and face-to-face training available for participants in the two regions, where demand in the disability care sector has never been greater.”

Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said around 40 participants will be placed in jobs within the disability care sector, including traineeships or apprenticeships. 

“We know Western Sydney is experiencing significant demand in the disability sector, underpinned by the transformative support being provided by the NDIS,” Senator Payne said.

“Our government’s investment will prepare participants for rewarding careers with good, long-term future job prospects in the critical disability workforce.

“Importantly, the 40 or so Generation Australian participants will have access to volunteer mentors with significant experience in the sector to receive ongoing support. 

“Creating more jobs in this growth sector further bolsters our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

Malcolm Kinns, CEO of Generation Australia, welcomed the government’s investment. 

“Generation Australia is delighted to be participating in the Local Jobs Program in Greater Western Sydney,” Ms Kinns said.  

“The outcomes-based funding model, with focus on local employers and community needs, aligns perfectly with our philosophy of providing long term career opportunities for people experiencing significant barriers to employment, while providing a demonstrable value proposition to employers.”

The Local Recovery Fund supports regions by funding tailored projects to help align job seekers with employment opportunities in their community.

More details about the Local Jobs Program can be found at www.dese.gov.au/local-jobs-program.