Game-changing Jobs Ready program extended
The Fraser Coast Jobs Ready program has been extended for another year after a successful first 12 months assisting local jobseekers and employers.
In its first year, more than 100 residents accessed the free four-week jobs training program and more than half subsequently gained employment.
One participant Warren Hutch said he was thrilled by the quality of teaching during the intensive course.
“Before coming to this program, I thought it was ‘just another one of those programs’, but I soon realised this wasn’t the case,” Warren said.
“This is the best program I’ve ever been to, and I think there should be more.
“The staff gave me so much confidence, helped me through adversity and better yet, helped me land my dream job.”
Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Jade Wellings said the Jobs Pathways Program aimed to enhance participants’ job readiness by boosting confidence to help participants gain and retain jobs.
“It focuses on improving job-seeking skills, writing resumes and application letters, interview skills and how to apply in person and online,” she said.
“While the Fraser Coast has one of the highest unemployment rates in the state, feedback from the business community indicates many are planning to offer new jobs in the near future.”
The Jobs Pathways Program is free, open to all ages and runs for four weeks, three days per week – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 9am – 2pm. Participants will be provided with a light breakfast and lunch.
The Jobs Pathways Program will run until June 2024.
For more information and to apply contact by email jobs.hub@frasercoast.qld.gov.au or call Jordan Morris on 0476 395 466.
The program is run by the Fraser Coast Regional Council and funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services to upskill, build job readiness and provide intensive support to unemployed people.
Key stats/improvements (average across the 11 groups)
Participants took a survey on their first and last day of the program and scored themselves from 1-5, 1 being the lowest, 5 being the highest.
Confidence in and ability to write resume’s, cover letters & Selection Criteria responses:
Week 1 Average: 2.5
Graduation Day Average: 4.5
Access to training and assistance towards career goals and knowledge on what is available:
Week 1 Average: 2.4
Graduation Day Average: 4.6
Skills and confidence to approach an employer face to face and apply for a job in person (eye contact, speech, presentation, relevant information given).
Week 1 Average: 2.6
Graduation Day Average: 4.8
Knowledge on what support services are available and how to access them (financial, housing, clothing, licenses, drug/alcohol, counselling etc.)
Week 1 Average: 2.3
Graduation Day Average: 4.6