WorkFoundations To Lift Australians’ Work Readiness
The Albanese Labor Government is investing $10 million over two years, to continue delivering on its commitment to create an inclusive labour market where everybody has the opportunity for secure, fairly paid work.
16 organisations will be delivering WorkFoundations activities that will assist jobseekers facing complex barriers to employment to build their work readiness by providing tailored wrap-around supports while gaining real life work experience and earning real wages.
The paid employment placements will be delivered by social enterprises and businesses, providing real jobs in industries such as IT, art, retail and hospitality. Participants will be paid at the relevant award or enterprise agreement rate, with legal entitlements including superannuation and leave.
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Amanda Rishworth said the WorkFoundations pilot will inform future policy and program development on how organisations can best support job seekers access training and employment.
“We know there is a significant group of jobseekers held back from sustainable employment by a range of challenging barriers to employment such as limited education, experience, skills, age, disability, illness, or mental health or physical conditions,” Minister Rishworth said.
“WorkFoundations will target these kinds of barriers to support job seekers build their work readiness in a nurturing environment they wouldn’t otherwise get access to.
“Participants will receive integrated wrap-around services tailored to their needs, mentoring and ongoing case management and gain real life experience in jobs that suit their skills, interests and needs, all while earning a real wage.
“This program represents a strategic partnership between government and employers across Australia, so employers too will benefit from WorkFoundations by learning how inclusive hiring can strengthen and deliver sustained value for their business.”
Paid employment placements will reach across all states and territories, and participant groups, including First Nations people, youth, and women with experience of domestic violence.
The Australian Government committed $54 million over five years in the 2024-25 Budget to a new employment pathways package and is taking steps towards larger scale reform of the employment services system.
The Paid Employment Pathways Package will foster a productive and competitive labour market through policies and programs that assist job seekers into work, including secure work, and meet employer and industry needs.
https://ministers.dewr.gov.au/rishworth/workfoundations-lift-australians-work-readiness