$5.5M INVESTMENT TO GROW QUEENSLAND’S MULTICULTURAL WORKFORCE

The Palaszczuk Government will continue to help employers to strengthen their workforce by connecting to work-ready migrants, refugees, and international students thanks to a $5.5 million investment.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said the Caloundra Community Centre was one of seven service providers funded to deliver 10 projects under the Diverse Queensland Workforce Program (DQW).

“From our work on the Good People. Good Jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032, it is clear that we need to continue to ensure more people are available for our rapidly expanding workforce needs and the Diverse Queensland Workforce Program is a vital part of ensuring we maximise opportunities across the State,” Minster Farmer said.

“Since DQW was established in November 2021, projects have provided direct support to 539 migrants and refugees, connecting them to services, training and work experience to help them get started in a job.

“Thanks to our DQW hubs across Queensland, 95 percent of program participants have secured employment with 80 percent of those entering full time positions.

“This funding takes our total investment in DQW to $8.5 million up until 2024–25 to assist 2500 migrants, refugees and international students find a fulfilling job and build rewarding careers.

Minister Farmer said the expansion was part of the Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-32 with the $5.5 million allocated to extend the reach of the program to an additional 1500 participants over the next three years.

Member for Nicklin, Rob Skelton said this program has been hugely successful across the state, and it is a major win for the Sunshine Coast to have it expanding to provide more employment opportunities to migrants and refugees throughout the coast.

“Queensland’s newest residents require varying degrees of support when it comes to employment and while most are work-ready, they often struggle with system navigation of skills recognition, professional registration and local job markets.”

“Programs like this ensure Queenslanders have the skills needed for the jobs of the future, and that those who might usually face barriers don’t miss out on opportunities.” Mr Skelton said

Member for Caloundra, Jason Hunt said this is a fantastic outcome for Caloundra and looks forward to investment in creating a diverse workforce from Caloundra Community Centre expanding their program.

“Equally, employers need support to develop more inclusive work practices that can enable them to accept more diverse workers and strengthen their workforce.”

“We are lucky to have so many hard working people wanting to come to Queensland to start a life and help grow our community” Mr Hunt said.

Minister Farmer said Multicultural Australia and the funded organisations would continue to build on their strong track record delivering support and employment pathways for our newest Queenslanders.

“These projects have a strong focus on connections and community and I thank all our funded organisations for helping build careers and creating the strong workforce Queensland needs,” Minister Farmer said.

For further information visit www.desbt.qld.gov.au/training/future-skills-fund or call 1300 369 935.