Bundaberg jobseekers keen for careers in the kitchen

Twelve Bundaberg jobseekers are thumbing their noses at the old saying, ‘if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen’.

Summer heat and hot kitchens aside, the group are eager to find work in the hospitality industry following the completion of a State Government funded training program.

The Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative has provided $345,000 this financial year for the IMPACT Make Your Mark organisation to help 50 people complete their Skilling for the Bundaberg Workforce project.

Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations John Mickel said through Skilling Queenslanders for Work, the Government funds organisations like IMPACT to help jobseekers re-enter the workforce and alleviate the state’s workforce shortages.

“With increases in the tourism and hospitality industries expected over the summer period, programs like this help Queensland stay ahead of growth and ensure economic strength during these tough financial times,” Mr Mickel said.

“Ten members of the group will be offered a paid work placement at the beginning of next year to further improve their confidence, practical skill level and strengthen their résumés.”

IMPACT Make Your Mark program Manager Joan Graham-Jones said the jobseekers had already developed practical skills during the project, including planning, preparing and cooking food.

“Early in December they also helped with setting up and table service for the Community Volunteers Scheme Christmas luncheon,” Ms Graham-Jones said.

“The Café and Kitchen Work Course the participants have completed, provides them with a qualification that will help them gain employment in the hospitality industry.

“The course includes units in health, safety and security procedures, workplace hygiene, organisation and preparation of food, knowledge of the hospitality industry and skills in working with colleagues and customers.

“Those who want to can also undertake extra units and attain a Certificate II in Hospitality Operations.”

During 2008/09 the Queensland Government will invest $80 million in the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative to give an estimated 15,000 long-term unemployed and underemployed people job-related assistance and skills training to maximise labour force participation and increase Queensland's prosperity.

Twelve months after receiving employment and training assistance 71 per cent of participants are in employment.

The Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative is part of the State Government’s $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan which aims to provide individuals and industry with the skills and workforce for the 21st Century.

Skilling Queenslanders for Work also supports the Government’s Toward Q2 vision of a stronger and fairer Queensland.

For more information on the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative visit www.employment.qld.gov.au or call 1300 369 925.

Organisation Contact: Joan Graham-Jones on 4153 4233

Ministerial Contact: 3235 4060

December 16, 2008