Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP today came out in support of the $2.9 million Back to Work information and support service to help retrenched workers back into employment.
Ms Tierney said the Brumby Labor Government’s Back to Work initiative would assist Victorians hit hardest by the Global Financial Crisis find new work.
“The Brumby Labor Government understands these are tough financial times and is taking action to ensure Victorians have jobs,” Ms Tierney said.
“From 31 August, retrenched workers can contact Back to Work via the hotline or website and once registered they will receive an information kit with information including a directory of employment services and expert advice on re-employment.
“Retrenched workers will have immediate to access to intensive job searching and job preparation training through Centrelink.
“This training enables jobseekers to develop and write a resume, develop strong interview skills and help with job searches and job placement.”
Ms Tierney said Back to Work aimed to reduce the stress of job hunting immediately after retrenchment, providing Victorians with the right channels to seek and achieve reemployment faster than ever before.
“The Brumby Labor Government was also taking action to secure existing jobs and create more job opportunities through strong investment in infrastructure.
“Our Government is securing Victorian jobs with more than 1000 projects being built across the state with a total value of $8 billion.
“We’ve also made vital changes to skills training that will generate 172,000 new government-subsidised TAFE and training places to plug skills gaps and remove caps preventing Victorians from entering skills-based training.” Ms Tierney said.
Ms Tierney said people could contact the Back to Work hotline number on 1800 842 463, or go to www.workforce.vic.gov.au/backtowork.