$750,000 for Cairns jobseeker projects

More than 2,000 Queensland jobseekers will undertake training and jobs, with the green light given to more than 80 community projects under the Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) initiative.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer today announced the successful projects that will share in the $13.7 million SQW funding.

The Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) initiative delivers community-based training and job opportunities to unemployed Queenslanders.  

This second funding round for 2020-21 brings the total SQW investment for the financial year to more than $55.8 million for 284 projects that will provide training and assistance to a total of more than 7,400 jobseekers.

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said Cairns has been successful in securing almost $751,200 in funding for six projects that will assist 160 people.

“The organisations that have secured funding in this round will allow jobseekers in Cairns to develop their skills and make a difference in the community,” he said.

“For example, Anglicare, has received funding to train 40 job seekers in Certificate I in Conservation and Land Management through its Opening Doors project.

“SQW projects support a number of social enterprises that bring specialist support and employment opportunities for people who face disadvantages when applying for work.”

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said more than 56,000 people have been skilled for work since 2015, with more than 34,000 people finding a job as a direct result of participating in SQW projects or traineeships.

“The projects connect jobseekers with the training and support they need to secure long-term employment,” Mr Crawford said.

“We know that every dollar invested in Skilling Queenslanders for Work generates almost eight dollars in return, so it’s a great investment for Queensland.”

Skilling Queenslanders for Work funds skills development, training and job opportunities for unemployed, disengaged or disadvantaged Queenslanders through a suite of targeted skills and training programs.

For further information, including the full list of projects, is available at www.qld.gov.au/skillingqueenslanders or call 1300 369 935.

ENDS

Media Contact: Richard O’Leary 0447155332