The Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney, today welcomed the release of $4 million in State Government grants to assist parents who are considering a return to the workforce.
“This year up to 4000 parents across the State will be able to access grants of $1000 each through the Victoriaworks for parents returning to work program to help them cover expenses such as course re-training fees, books and child care.
“This program to help working families has been highly successful.
“Since it began in 2007, 355 parents in the Barwon South West region have had the opportunity to attend a course or undertake training through this supportive program.
“This new release of grants is fantastic news for parents who have cared for children and who have now decided to boost their skills and return to the workforce.
“The grants also benefit employers who are constrained by skills shortages.
“With an ageing population and declining population growth, Victoria will be looking more and more to people who want to return to the workforce after caring for families to help fulfil our skilled labour needs.”
Ms Tierney said that Victoriaworks for parents returning to work was a $13.2m program over
4 years (2007-11) which would enable up to 12,000 parents across Victoria to get ahead and back to work.
“I encourage every parent who is considering a return to employment after years of caring for children to take advantage of this effective program which will make it easier to get back to work.
“Parents can register for these grants directly through the web at www.parentsreturningtowork.com.au”
The next batch of grants will open 21 May 2010.
“The grants are released in tranches throughout the year to ensure the assistance is accessible to as many families as possible,” Ms Tierney said.