The McGowan Government has launched a new short course to create a pipeline of workers in the social assistance and allied health industry.
Developed in partnership with industry to meet its workforce needs, the Ageing and Disability Job Ready pilot program is part of the State Government's $5.5 billion investment in WA Recovery Plan initiatives to upskill the WA workforce and enhance employment and training opportunities following COVID-19.
Applications for the program are now open with the first intake of students scheduled to start on April 23, 2021.
The program is free for all job seekers, young people and concession-eligible students.
Students will enrol in the new Introduction to Direct Support skill set, which includes a work placement with participating employers and trains students in how to comply with infection prevention and control; conduct manual tasks safely; meet personal support needs; and communicate and work in health and community services.
On completion of the course, students will be connected with opportunities to transition into employment, undertake a traineeship with a participating employer or further their training to gain a disability or aged care qualification.
Training will be delivered by North Metropolitan TAFE, South Metropolitan TAFE and private training providers Activ Foundation, Amana Living Incorporated, Insight Training Group Australia and Centacare Employment and Training.
Employers have the opportunity to host a work placement student and, if the student transitions into a traineeship, will be able to access State and Australian Government incentives or wage subsides.
The Ageing and Disability Job Ready program was developed in consultation with Community Skills Western Australia and key industry partners.
The program will be expanded to the Goldfields and Wheatbelt regions in May 2021.
To register interest in the program visit http://www.jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/pathways or email [email protected]
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"There is growing demand for disability and aged care workers around the State and the new Job Ready program provides pathways to full qualifications and employment.
"This program will help more Western Australians to join the disability and aged care workforce by providing real, hands-on experience in the industry.
"Our continuing investment in building a strong and adaptable training system is key to ensuring Western Australia's long term economic prosperity."
As stated by Disability Services and Seniors and Ageing Minister Don Punch:
"With our population ageing and more than 400,000 Australians accessing the NDIS, aged care and disability support are amongst the nation's fastest growing industries and provide many employment opportunities.
"Disability and aged care support involves rewarding work that makes a positive difference to the lives of others, and there has never been a better time to consider a career in caring."
Education and Training Minister's office - 6552 5700
