Stepping Forward - Sharing What Works

Recommendation 23

The taskforce recommends that:

the Commonwealth government promote effective integration of Job Network services and local youth support strategies including:
- more opportunities for young people to benefit from Intensive Assistance; and
- an increased awareness of the needs of young people by Job Network providers and of the impact of breaching penalties.
the Commonwealth government work with State and Territory governments to develop:
- arrangements which allow a greater number of young people to access New Apprenticeship preparation programmes with entry levels appropriate for young people without adequate basic education competencies, as well as structural and industrial arrangements which make part-time and school-based New Apprenticeships attractive to employers;
- New Apprenticeship placements in the government, private and community sectors for disadvantaged young people; and
- a recognition of the importance of education outcomes for young people in New Apprenticeships Access Programme.
to ensure that young people with high support needs can access New Apprenticeships there must be:
- adequate pre-placement preparation and post-placement support of young people;
- on-going mentoring;
- careful selection, training and support for host employers;
- a staged induction process developed in consultation with young people; and
- recognition and assessment of prior learning and a creative approach to structured workplace learning.
the Work for the Dole programme be enhanced so that it incorporates:
- adequate preparation of participants in their understanding of occupational health and safety requirements;
- local programme development processes which consult with young people and community groups in planning and delivering the programme; and
- clear articulation into traineeships, employment or accredited training.

Initiatives addressing Recommendation 23

Below is a compilation of initiatives, listed by State/Territory and Commonwealth, that contribute to building the foundations of support needed to promote the wellbeing, participation and identification of young people in vulnerable circumstances. In addition, you are encouraged to look at the current selection of Snapshots gathered for the State/Territory and Commonwealth initiatives targeting Recommendation 23.