More Victorians to Reconnect after funding recommitment

THE State Government’s Reconnect program, aimed at helping Victorians overcome barriers to education, training and employment, has been extended for another four years courtesy of an additional $48 million funding commitment.

Delivered through TAFEs, Learn Locals and community service organisations across the State, including Bendigo TAFE and Ballarat Group Training, the Reconnect program aims to help Victorians overcome barriers to education, training and employment, and provides support in regards to further study or employment pathways.

The initiative 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.

All current providers will be invited to continue to deliver Reconnect services.

Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney said the government is making sure Victorians can obtain the support they need to get into training or a job, no matter their postcode, background or their 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,” she said.

To find out more, visit the Victorian Government website.