Work Expo Preparing Young People For A Bright Future
A new careers expo designed by and for young people was launched today by Minister for Education James Merlino.
The Work Expo was developed by young people aged 15-25 participating in the True North Leadership Program at The Huddle.
The program is a joint initiative of the North Melbourne Football Club, the Scanlon Foundation and the Australian Multicultural Foundation, which is tackling youth disengagement in North Melbourne, Flemington, Kensington and West Melbourne.
Mr Merlino said the Work Expo offers young people opportunities to participate in workshops and networking with local businesses and training organisations, to learn how to pursue employment and career pathways in various industries.
Preparing young Victorians of all backgrounds for the jobs of the future is central to the Andrews Labor Government’s plan to build the Education State.
The Labor Government has committed funding to a range of initiatives aimed at paving the careers of young Victorians, including:
- the $320 million TAFE Rescue Fund;
- $125 million to establish 10 Tech Schools across Victoria;
- the $50 million TAFE Back to Work Fund to support TAFE institutes in partnership with industry to deliver more training in growing and emerging industries;
- $32 million to build the skills of at-risk youth through Local Learning and Employment Networks;
- $1.6 million for mentoring to better support students starting tertiary education and training.
The Government is supporting students of all backgrounds to access the very best career support and advice through such initiatives as Engaging Parents in Career Conversations (EPiCC), an online resource to provide parents and carers with practical information about subject choices, courses and careers.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“The Work Expo is a great forum for young people to explore training and job opportunities that will support their future careers.”
“We’re investing in skills and training and transforming Victoria into the Education State, to prepare young Victorians for the jobs of the future.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is working to ensure Victorians of all backgrounds gain the skills they need to succeed in our growing economy.”