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Victorians training in high-priority areas will get the work placements they need thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney today announced $1 million to ensure Victorians can get practical on-the-job experience and begin working in sectors critical to the state’s economic recovery from the pandemic.

The Australian Employment Network (AEN) will help an initial 1,000 people in sectors such as nursing, mental health, disability and individual support, childcare and community services get suitable placements quickly.

The pandemic has affected many VET students in accessing mandatory work placements needed complete their courses and begin work in these vital sectors – this funding will help fix this.

Work will also be undertaken with employers to ensure these placements can happen as more workplaces open and we work towards a COVID normal.

This investment is on top of the $10.23 million in Free TAFE Coordinated Practical Placement funding already allocated to employ Placement Coordinators at every TAFE and dual sector provider to broker placement opportunities with employers.

This program will be expanded to allow for the placement of students outside free TAFE courses.

Since 2015, the Victorian Government has committed more than $1.7 billion to rebuild our TAFE system and ensure students can get the skills they need for the jobs they want.

As stated by Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney:

“We are helping more Victorians get the crucial work placements they need to finish their qualifications and find work in industries that will drive the state’s economic recovery.”

“This is about getting more Victorians back into work sooner.”