The West Australian Department of Local Government and Regional Development is providing vital skills to Indigenous youth through its Young Indigenous Local Government Scholarship program. The program, launched in November 2003, has already provided 16 young Indigenous people with a 12 month placement in Local Government.
The Department’s Senior Project Officer, Community Leadership Initiative, Michelle Beer, said the program has been very successful with many Councils getting involved.
“The program provides an opportunity for young people who don’t have formal qualifications, making it hard for them to find a job,” she said. “Scholarship recipients are working in all areas of Local Government. We have one person working as a Sports and Recreation Officer and others working in Youth Work, Aged Care Services and Administration.”
Michelle Beer said Local Governments are given the opportunity to apply for scholarships through the department. Once they are granted, Council takes control of the program and recruiting.
“Councils generally place advertisements in local papers or approach young people they think may be interested to fill the positions,” she said.
The Shire of Upper Gascoyne embraced the opportunity to apply for a $10,000 grant from the Department. By matching the contribution, Council has provided a valuable work experience opportunity for 18 year old scholarship recipient, Malcolm Kelly.
Malcolm carries out a range of duties including lawn mowing, reticulation repairs and refuse collection. He aspires to be a plant operator when is able to get the appropriate drivers licence for a multi wheel roller.
Malcolm said he is delighted that the Shire has continued his employment beyond the initial 12 month scholarship period.
“This will provide me with an opportunity to further my skill development and learn the general roles involved in working in Local Government,” he said.
For further information contact Michelle Beer on (08) 9217 1444.
