Community
11 September, 2023
Jobs roll in for unemployed
TWELVE Indigenous women have graduated from the first National Joblink’s Hi-Vis Women in Construction Program, with job offerings already flooding in two weeks before the official end of the program.
After three months of receiving training, mentoring, and completing a certificate I in construction, 12 Indigenous women from the Cairns region, who were previously unemployed, are now finding their career path with the support of National Joblink’s program.
So far, three women – Stacey Joy Douglas, Nolani Henry Moore and Terisa Lafragua – have received employment at Pete’s Painting, MGSF Group and Mark Fletcher’s Solid Plastering and Texture Coatings. More job offers are expected to come in coming weeks.
The program, funded by the state government and supported by Major Training Group, offered the women the basic skills to get into construction, emotional mentoring, and connections into the trades industry in the region.
Program director Mark Stewart said the initiative had been successful with job outcomes already happening.
“Our recruits went to Major Training, our partner, and did a cert I in construction as well as doing a lot of capacity building, employability skills and adventure-based learning to build confidence and capacity,” Mr Stewart said.
“They completed their cert I three weeks ago and our community-based project was to upgrade the Barron Trinity Bulls Rugby Club’s clubhouse. The ladies helped with painting the bathrooms and changing rooms and also made a beautiful mural.
“They also received two weeks of work experience which for many has turned into employment.”
Graduate and single mum of four Stacey Joy Douglas is one of the participants who has already found a job.
She said through the initiative she had found a new passion.
“I’ve been without work for the past 12 years and I thought I would try it because I like doing things outdoors and hands on and I’m loving the journey so far,” the Westcourt woman said.
“I started my placement with Pete’s Painting Solutions and they like me so they have offered me an apprenticeship.
“I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Hi-Vis program mentor and sparkie Jessica Meek said the program was critical to addressing skills shortages and diversity.
