Graduation brings hope for migrant work experience participants

Seventeen participants in the State Government’s Migrant Work Experience program graduated today at a ceremony in Brisbane, boosting their prospects for successful careers.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the program offered newcomers work experience in a State Government department and had helped 290 migrants since it started in 2001.

“About three-quarters t of those graduates have gained temporary work with a government department within one week of finishing the program,” Mr Welford said.

“Many of today’s graduates hail from war-torn countries including Sierra Leone, Sudan, Zimbabwe and Bosnia and despite being highly qualified in their various fields have had difficulties securing employment in Australia.

“Evidence suggests even highly qualified people from non-English speaking backgrounds face more challenges than most when seeking work.

“Support through the Migrant Work Experience Program has boosted the participants’ confidence and their hopes for finding jobs that match their skills.

“It’s also helped to renew their hopes of leading fulfilling lives.”

Mr Welford said this year’s Migrant Work Experience Program involved 16 government departments.

“Not only do participants benefit from this program, they in turn share their experiences, culture and knowledge with others in the workforce, so it’s a ‘win-win’ situation.

“The Migrant Work Experience Program reflects our Government’s commitment to giving all people a ‘fair go’ and embracing a multicultural workforce.”

Applications for the program’s next round will be available at Migrant Community Centres from July, with the next graduation ceremony to be held in November 2008.

Applicants can also telephone the Department of Education, Training and the Arts’ Workforce Diversity Unit on 07 3405 3804 for more information.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000