Small businesses and job seekers in Port Augusta, Port Lincoln and Whyalla will benefit from a series of Small Business Forums delivered under the Australian Government’s Local Jobs Program.
The $62.8 million Local Jobs Program uses community knowledge to directly address labour market challenges and connect job seekers with employment opportunities in their immediate area.
Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey MP said the forums are designed to be interactive and informative events, and will feature a range of experts to help business owners address labour market challenges.
“We have chronic shortages across a wide range of industries right across Grey at the moment,” he said.
“We know there is pool of unemployed, we are providing training and skills pathways and we need to somehow, make the bridge between those without jobs and those who need workers. Its urgent!
“There will be advice and support on offer from the Small Business Commissioner, representatives from the Australian Taxation Office, the Fair Work Ombudsman, SafeWork SA and providers from the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network.
“The forums will also provide information on the wide range of support available through government programs and the broader employment services landscape that will connect job seekers with the South Australian businesses who need them.”
Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business Stuart Robert MP said the Small Business Forums will give business owners the knowledge to better recruit and retain much needed staff.
“These forums will help develop locally led employment pathways that provide opportunities for job seekers to upskill, reskill, and ultimately find work in their area,” he said.
“This includes identifying where employment opportunities are, and what skills are needed for these roles, which will enable job seekers to move into work or training in areas where they are needed most.
“This is just one example of how the Local Jobs Program is forging connections between Government, industry and job seekers – by connecting local businesses with the workforce they need.”
The Small Business Forums will run in Port Lincoln on Monday 24 May, Port Augusta on Tuesday 25 May and in Whyalla on Wednesday 26 May from 5.15pm to 8.30pm.
The Local Jobs Program has partnered with the Port Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, Business Port Augusta and Whyalla Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as Regional Development Australia Eyre Peninsula and Far North to deliver the forums.
More information on the Local Jobs Program can be found at www.dese.gov.au/local-jobs-program
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith (08) 8633 1744
May 14, 2021
