Employment Solutions

A recent article in the Bendigo Advertiser (Saturday 8 May 2010) states, young jobseekers can gain new skills through the National Green Jobs Corps initiative launched 7 May 2010. The 26-week course is run by Mission Australia and Conservation Volunteers Australia with help from Parks Victoria.

Follow up:

It will focus on developing the skills of 18 young people in green and climate change industries in the northern goldfields box ironbark parks.

Tasks include cleaning up heritage sites, plant identification, clearing and cutting weeds as well as conservation theory.

While the course is voluntary, students must attend or face infringement notices that could affect their Centrelink payments.

Upon completion students will achieve the Certificate II in Conservation and Land Management.

Volunteer student Leigh Bastin, 24. was confident the course would lead to further work. "I think it's good, I'm hoping to apply for a position as a ranger with Parks Victoria when I complete the course," he said.

Mission Australia Business Manager John McAulay said the course steered young people towards the workforce.

"This is a federal government initiative to encourage young people to take on an active role in their community while building skills in the work force," he said.

 Conservation Volunteers Australia engagement officer, Iain Wilson, said the course had already produced positive results.

"We've already seen three students pick up apprenticeships with local businesses.

"It's a good way to get young people active in the workforce while making a positive impact on the community," Mr Wilson said.