A program run by the Department of Jobs and Small Business supporting young people to get the skills and work experience needed to find and keep a job has now helped more than 20,000 workers.
Minister for Jobs and Innovation, Senator Michaelia Cash noted the milestone saying the Department’s Youth Jobs PaTH (Prepare–Trial–Hire) program recognised that the best form of welfare was a job.
“Youth Jobs PaTH is an example of how we are implementing practical measures to help unemployed young people get the essential work experience they need to secure a job,” Senator Cash said.
“We know that one of the biggest problems young people face is a lack of experience, which can make it difficult when trying to convince an employer of their suitability for a job.”
She said PaTH was providing young Australians with the work experience they needed to build their skills and confidence.
“At the same time, an employer gets the opportunity to observe that young person at work and see if they are the right one for their business,” Senator Cash said.
She said Youth Jobs PaTH included three flexible elements.
The first was “Prepare” employment skills training courses helping young people better understand what employers expect of them in the workplace, equipping them with the skills, attitudes and behaviour required for them to be successful in a job.
The second was “Trial” – encouraging local businesses to take on young people aged 17–24 in a voluntary internship for four to 12 weeks.
Senator Cash said businesses that took on an intern would receive a $1,000 payment, and young people who participated an incentive payment of $200 per fortnight on top of their income support payment.
The third element of the program was “Hire” – a Youth Bonus wage subsidy of up to $10,000 available to help hire more young people.
Information about the Youth Jobs PaTH program can be accessed at the Department’s Jobactive website at this PS News link.
