The Liberal Government is committed to ensuring Tasmanians have the best possible training and employment opportunities.
In this year's state budget we committed funding for two exciting new skills and training initiatives. Funding deeds have now been signed for both the Whitelion Employment Preparation and Placement program and an expansion of the Beacon Foundation's program.
We have provided $300,000 over three years for Whitelion's employment preparation and placement program, which will support 200 young people aged 16-25 years to enter the workforce or return to study.
The Liberal Government is committed to supporting and empowering young learners by investing in skills for growth which lead to sound employment and education choices.
This program supports Tasmanian youth to prepare for work or study that will direct them into vocational education and training.
Funding of $675,000 over 3 years has been provided to expand the successful Beacon in Schools Program.
Young people who leave school before year 12 are almost twice as likely to be unemployed than those who complete year 12. This program is an incredible investment to actively help engage our youth and achieve better outcomes for their futures.
An additional 1,500 students will now be able to undertake the Beacon Foundation's program. This program has a focus on employability skills, work experience, coaching, mentoring and career guidance.
The Tasmanian Government's strategic policy directions in skills training is detailed in Investing in Skills for Growth, which can be viewed at http://www.skills.tas.gov.au/skillsforgrowth.
This Government is committed to supporting economic growth and prosperity in Tasmania through developing the skills of its people and supporting the strategic workforce development of its industries.
Our investment in training and workforce development will be focused on developing a more efficient and competitive training system, a greater focus on delivering real skills for real jobs, and investing in skills that drive State growth.