The Andrews Labor Government is launching a new jobs initiative to create a better future for those leaving the youth justice system.

Minister for Employment Jaala Pulford and Minister for Youth Justice Sonya Kilkenny visited staff at the Parkville Youth Justice Precinct this week and announced the pilot program to take place at Parkville College – a Labor Government specialist school educating youths who are, or have been, in custody.

At risk youth involved in the pilot will develop a career plan, receive job readiness training and learn critical skills to improve long-term employment prospects as they prepare to re-enter the community.

Jobs Victoria mentors will work with 50 to 100 young people aged 17 to 21 to help them to find a job and keep it, providing continuous support for the first six-months a young person is in a job.

The pilot hiring initiative is designed to provide real employment opportunities for young people at the greatest risk of being incarcerated.

Finding a job is an important and positive step for young people leaving custody and being employed can significantly reduce the possibility of recidivism.

The $220,000 hiring program is part of the Government’s $619 million investment in Jobs Victoria supporting Victorians facing barriers to employment.

More information about the program and support for people looking for work is available at jobs.vic.gov.au.