31 people into 31 jobs during May

The Benalla Jobs and Skills Drive is close to achieving its objective of placing 31 people into 31 jobs during the month of May.

Mid-way through the campaign, 18 job seekers have been placed into employment and 13 jobs have been created, giving job seekers from Benalla and the surrounding region more employment options.

Local Employment Coordinator, Julie Tyndall said the program has progressed well and she was pleased with the results.

"The drive has gained strong momentum and we are well on the way to exceeding our target objectives," said Julie.

"Through the creation of 13 jobs, the program demonstrates to the community ,and to the unemployed that there are jobs out there, you just need the right tools and support and that’s where the 18 involved organisations can help.

"The shop front set up in the Benalla CBD at 53 Bridge Street has been tremendously successful, we have had between 25 and 30 people walk in off the street seeking employment assistance.

"The success of the shop front is due to a number of factors, it is convenient, accessible, the staff are approachable and we have the tools, information and local connections to be able to link job seekers with support networks to assist them in their job hunting.

"The shop front also highlights resources available to them, such as the Australian Job Search site and Seek.

"The program provides a careers advice service through GOTAFE. Providers have also collaborated together to conduct mock interviews, with the next session planned for tomorrow, Thursday, May 24.

The Job and Skills Drive held during May was developed to promote employment and education in Benalla and surrounding areas. The campaign has identified skills shortages by speaking with and learning from employers, the community, educational providers and job agencies from the area.

For further information visit the shop front in Benalla or to book a free session with a careers adviser contact Tina McCormack via the Customer Service Centre on 1300 GOTAFE (1300 468233) or visit gotafe.vic.edu.au alternatively visit facebook.com/jobsandskillsdrive

Article Published 22 May 2012