More than $184,000 for Townsville jobseeker projects

More than 2000 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.

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) initiative supports Townsville by delivering 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.

Mr Harper said Townsville has been successful in securing $184,900 in funding for two projects that will assist 52 people.

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

“For example, Steps Group Australia Limited has received funding to train 40 job seekers in Certificate III in Individual Support.

“Skilling Queenslanders for Work 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 Mundingburra Les Walker 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 Walker 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.

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