The City of Casey is supporting local tertiary students to gain real-world experience and increase their pathways to future employment by offering paid work placements with the Council.
The placements are part of Federation University's Co-operative Education (Co-op) program, where students undertake paid work in an industry related to their chosen field of study, which count towards their qualifications.
Council entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Federation University in 2025, to increase collaboration between academia, industry and government and help create a pipeline for young people from education to employment.
The partnership also promotes stronger cooperation between Federation University and the City of Casey to explore new training, education and advocacy opportunities within the Berwick Health and Education Precinct, a hub of knowledge, technology, health, research and employment in Melbourne's south-east.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther said Council was proud to support the program that not only helped local students to complete their study requirements and prepare them for future employment but also helps to address skills gaps in the region.
"Council has made a commitment to partner with the education sector to support local skill development and explore opportunities to provide training and employment pathways for our community, bridging the gap between education and industry," she said.
"We currently have two students undertaking paid placements with our Economic Development and Environment and Sustainability teams.
"While these students are gaining valuable work experience in their chosen field and developing the skills they need to succeed, Council gets the benefit of having young people working in our teams who are keen to learn and bring new ideas into the workplace.
"I encourage other employers in Casey to consider the potential benefits this program could bring to their own business."
Danielle Sinadinovic said her placement with Council's Economic Development team has been "hands-on, community focussed and full of opportunities to learn."
"Every day brings something new, and it's given me valuable insights into supporting local businesses and practical workforce experience that I'll take back into my studies," she said.
Emily Rogers said working with Council's Environment and Sustainability team on real biodiversity projects has been incredibly rewarding.
"Being able to work on real biodiversity projects in the community where I live has been incredibly rewarding," she said.
"It's helped me connect what I'm learning at uni with meaningful work that makes a difference.
"The team has been so welcoming and supportive, and this placement has really confirmed for me that I'd love to keep working in the local area long term."
