The Allan Labor Government is making sure that every Victorian can access the life changing learning and training opportunities they need to get a job.
Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney today visited Preston Reservoir Adult Community Education (PRACE) to celebrate Adult Learners Week, where she announced a $48 million investment to extend the Reconnect program for a further four years.
Delivered through TAFEs, Learn Locals and community service organisations across Victoria, the Reconnect program helps Victorians to overcome barriers to education, training and employment, and provides support into further study or employment pathways.
The program is designed for people who are not engaged in education, employment or training. This includes early school leavers, people experiencing long-term unemployment, asylum seekers, young people impacted by the justice system, and people with current or previous experience in out-of-home care.
The tailored, one-on-one support services on offer include counselling, mentoring, housing support, education opportunities, health and wellbeing services, and foundation and employability skills.
Since the program began in 2016, Reconnect has supported thousands of people to transition into further study, complete pre-accredited and accredited training, and achieve sustainable employment.
Reconnect has delivered positive outcomes for participants and the wider community. Before engaging with the program, 92 percent of participants were not in work or study. Six months after leaving the program, 89 percent were in work or study.
All current providers will be invited to continue to deliver Reconnect services.
To learn more about the Reconnect program, visit www.vic.gov.au/reconnect-program
As stated by Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney
"We're making sure Victorians can get the support they need to get into training or a job, no matter their postcode, background or past experience."
"Reconnect has been incredibly successful in supporting Victorians who need it most, which is why we are continuing to invest in this important program."
As stated by Member for Preston Nathan Lambert
"We're proud to back programs like Reconnect, which support people in Reservoir and Preston to build skills and find real opportunities in training and employment."
