Applications opens for the QLD government’s $140M Back to Work program

The latest phase of the program will increase payments to businesses and include a new range of upskilling workshops for both jobseekers and employers.

Applications have opened for the latest phase of the state government’s $140 million Back to Work employment program, focusing on getting young people across Central Queensland into jobs.

Applications have opened for the latest phase of the state government’s $140 million Back to Work employment program, focusing on getting young people across Central Queensland into jobs.

Minister Employment and Small Business Di Farmer said the refreshed program would provide greater access to on-the-ground support for employers and disadvantaged job seekers.

“The focus will be on those jobseekers who experience significant disadvantage in the labour market, who often require more intensive support to find a job,” Ms Farmer said.

“There’ll be payments of $15,000 to eligible businesses to who employ an eligible job seeker including the long term unemployed, an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person or someone with disability, and there’ll be a $20,000 youth boost payment for eligible businesses to employ an eligible Queenslander under 25.”

The program has already benefited thousands of people across the region, including Emilee Pennisi who was employed by Longreach tourism business, Outback Aussie Tours.

Business owner Alan Smith, who has hired four staff through the program, said the government support allowed the business to provide Ms Pennisi with a range of learning experiences, including in administration and at Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show.

“Emilee has found her niche in our kitchen and makes the best sticky date pudding in Central Queensland,” Mr Smith said.

Ms Pennisi said the program has allowed her to find a career she loves.

Member for Rockhampton Barry O'Rourke.

Member for Rockhampton, Barry O’Rourke, said the Back to Work program has helped 888 people get jobs in 417 businesses in the Rockhampton electorate alone.

“Back to Work will give businesses the confidence to take a chance on the new staff they need to grow, and I am so pleased the Palaszczuk Government is making this $140 million investment,” he said.

In addition to the financial employer incentives, a new range of intensive support for both jobseekers, employers and their employees will be available.

“We’ve also added more elements to the program – including mentoring sessions, training guidance, and support to secure possible employment requirements like a driving licence or a blue card – to ensure both job seekers and businesses have what they need to succeed,” Ms Farmer said.

“This wraparound support will not only help businesses recruit workers, but, vitally, to retain them too.”

The revitalised Back to Work program is now open. Click here to learn more about the program.

Originally published as Applications opens for the QLD government’s $140M Back to Work program