Joint media release with the Hon Julian Hill MP
The Albanese Government is continuing to invest in practical programs that connect new Australians with employers, industries and organisations that need workers.
The Government is investing $7.7 million to extend the successful Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration program (EPRI) for a further 12 months.
The program funds social enterprises with a proven track record of improving workforce participation outcomes for refugees and humanitarian migrants, including people with lower English proficiency, limited local experience or fewer established networks.
To date, EPRI has supported more than 3,400 participants and 130 businesses, through skills development, mentoring, work placements and direct links with employers.
The program is helping remove barriers to employment while giving businesses and organisations access to job-ready workers across industries including retail, hospitality, care, logistics and business services.
EPRI-funded providers work closely with employers to understand workforce needs, prepare participants for local workplaces and provide ongoing support so placements are more likely to succeed.
Community Corporate's Refugee E3 Project - Engage, Educate, Employ - is one example of this employer-led approach, working with major employers including Woolworths, IKEA and Accor to create practical pathways into work.
More information about the EPRI program, including providers and projects, is available at: Employment pathways for refugees
Quotes attributed to Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Dr Anne Aly
"We're backing practical programs that help people find work, while helping businesses and community organisations find the workers they need.
"Economic participation is essential for integration and gives people security, confidence and a sense of belonging.
"That is why programs like EPRI matter because they help people get their foot in the door, build the skills they need, and take that next step into work and being part of our community."
Quotes attributed to Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs, Julian Hill
"This practical, evidence-based program helps employers access workers and enables new Australians to enter the workforce sooner.
"Across the country, industries are looking for reliable staff. EPRI helps connect that demand with people who are ready and willing to work.
"By extending EPRI, the Albanese Government is backing stronger workforce participation, better settlement outcomes and a more productive economy."
Quotes attributable to Community Corporate CEO, Carmen Garcia
"We want to thank the Government and Department for their continued leadership and investment in refugees to access meaningful opportunities to thrive in Australia.
"The EPRI program has helped Community Corporate support over 200 migrants and refugees into work nationally each year across a range of industries including retail, hospitality, the care sector and business services.
"Our employer-led approach, partnering with large employers in need of ongoing supply of new employees, has provided practical pathways for refugees and continues to achieve great results.
"We welcome this extension of the program, which will enable social enterprises like ours to continue helping refugees and humanitarian migrants access work and overcome barriers to employment such as not having local experience."
