The Dandenong Pathway to Employment Hub has been officially launched following an encouraging first two months of operation.
Federal and State Government Ministers joined the Mayor of Greater Dandenong, Cr Sophie Tan and Councillors, to celebrate the opening of the Hub, which is funded by the Australian Government and supported by the Victorian Government.
The Hub opened to the community in early July and provides free, practical support for local people seeking employment, education or training.
Since opening, the Hub has welcomed more than 80 people, helping them address a wide range of barriers to employment.
These have included limited work history, training gaps and not having a driver’s licence. For others, support has focused on understanding how overseas qualifications and professional experience translate into employment opportunities in Australia. More than a third of participants have also sought help with their resumes.
The Hub is a three-year pilot program designed to connect local jobseekers with employment opportunities and provide more coordinated, accessible support for people seeking work across the region.
Cr Sophie Tan said the Hub’s local approach was central to its potential.
“Our strong local relationships and the trust of our community give the Employment Hub a solid foundation,” Cr Tan said.
“By taking a highly local approach, and being prepared to try new ways of working, we are already supporting jobseekers who might otherwise fall between the cracks.
“Greater Dandenong is one of Australia’s leading manufacturing centres. We have jobs in our city and we have people ready to work. Our opportunity is to connect more local jobseekers with those jobs.
“We thank the Australian Government for its $1.5 million investment in the Hub and the Victorian Government for partnering with us to deliver it. We are proud to be providing the office space that the Hub operates from. It’s a great example of what’s possible when all levels of government work together."
The Employment Hub provides a welcoming place where people can meet one-on-one with experienced officers, discuss their circumstances and identify practical next steps.
Depending on their needs, participants can be connected with training, mentoring, employment opportunities, specialist services and other forms of support.
Cr Tan said employment could make a profound difference in a person’s life.
“Finding work is about much more than earning an income. It can bring confidence and independence, provide security for a family and create a stronger sense of connection to the community,” Cr Tan said.
“Taking the first step is not always easy. The Employment Hub gives people a trusted local place where they can be heard and receive practical help to work out what comes next.”
The Hub also works with local employers to understand their workforce needs, support inclusive recruitment and connect them with Greater Dandenong’s diverse and capable workforce.
The Dandenong Pathway to Employment Hub is located at 4/225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. It is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 4pm. Walk-ins are welcome.
To make an appointment or ask a question, email employmentpathways@cgd.vic.gov.au or call 8571 5170.
