Training support for disadvantaged learners

Thousands of disadvantaged learners will gain new job skills thanks to 45 projects funded in the latest round of the Queensland Government’s Community Learning Program.

Premier Campbell Newman said the first funding round of the 2014-15 program would see $6.6 million invested in projects delivering vital training to 3,400 people.

“Community Learning is an essential part of our strong plan for a brighter future in Queensland,” Mr Newman said.

“Its training projects help individuals fulfil their potential, while reducing unemployment, boosting productivity and supercharging our economy.”

Mr Newman was joined by Education, Training and Employment Minister John-Paul Langbroek at the Gold Coast headquarters of community organisation FSG Australia, where the Program was helping Queenslanders succeed and contribute to the state’s growing four-pillar economy.

Mr Langbroek said the first two rounds of the program had already helped 4,000 Queenslanders receive the training they needed to move into employment or further study.

“Labor’s ad hoc approach to training missed opportunities and ignored the people who need it most, but this targeted program will provide real opportunities now and into the future,” Mr Langbroek said.

“Our $47 million investment over five years has funded 49 training providers and community organisations deliver projects from the NSW border to Far North Queensland.

“Southport-based FSG Australia will help 166 disadvantaged learners, including people with a disability and parents returning to work, to gain qualifications up to Certificate III level in hospitality, retail, horticulture and warehousing.

“Its $367,200 project My Training will be delivered in Beenleigh, Southport, Labrador, Arundel, Ipswich and Wynnum.”

FSG Australia CEO Vicki Batten said students would gain skills by working in a range of social enterprises, including a green shop, op shop, cafe and plant nursery.

“The program will also provide improved opportunities for all community members looking to build work skills through training, which will in turn expand and grow the business of our social enterprises and allow us to increase the scope of their activities,” Ms Batten said.

Mr Langbroek said the Community Learning program was a key initiative of the Queensland Government’s Great skills. Real opportunities. five-year action plan for the further education and training sector.

Information on applying for Community Learning funding and the full list of projects funded in the first round for 2014-15 are both available at www.training.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 22 July 2014 

Media contact: Danita Goodwin 0439 886 652