
The City of Greater Geelong has received funding to enhance employment opportunities for residents.
The Council has received $755,000 from the Victorian Government’s Department of Economic Development, Jobs Transport and Resources to support the Whittington Works Alliance’s demand-led employment model.
The City’s Acting General Manager Community Life Tim Hellsten said the Whittington Works Alliance offered a training mode that helped jobseekers find jobs through connections with local employers.
“This funding will help pay for a work mentor to assist with support services for jobseekers as they progress through accredited training and work placement.
“A work mentor is significant to achieving good employment outcomes for jobseekers from Geelong’s east.
“So the provision of a work mentor will allow Whittington Works Alliance to further support individuals as they transition into employment.”
Mr Hellsten said the four-year, demand-led employment model was also a significant win for local employers.
“This project is about building the capacity of the local workforce, providing jobseekers with industry-relevant skills so employers connected to Whittington Works will also benefit greatly.”
The Whittington Works demand-led employment project is a collaboration between the City, GROW (G21 Region Opportunities for Work) and Bethany Community Support.
Mr Hellsten said the project would enhance the education, employment and participation opportunities for residents of eastern Geelong.