The Andrews Labor Government is supporting locals in Werribee to access formal training, with a funding boost of $330,000 for the Wyndham Community and Education Centre.

The Victorian Budget 2016/17 included $20 million for the Reconnect Program to support young people who left school early or who are long-term unemployed to prepare for training and work.

The Centre will use its funding to partner with a number of other organisations in the region who have experience working with indigenous, refugee, disabled and culturally diverse young people.

The program will help support disengaged and vulnerable early school leavers to reengage with training and will eventually help them move into employment.

The Wyndham Community and Education Centre will also support early school leavers in Laverton and Williamstown.

The Labor Government is addressing disadvantage and promoting equity, helping those who have left school early or are long term unemployed to reconnect with training.

The number of early school leavers in the Wyndham area not in the labour force, employment or training currently sits at the state average of 5.5 per cent, down from a high of 9.2 per cent in 2014 under the Liberals.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“This is a big win for Wyndham locals. I’m sure the Wyndham Community and Education Centre will build on the good work they’re already doing supporting early school leavers.”

“This money will help break down the barriers stopping early school leavers in our local community from accessing training.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert

“Often young people lack the confidence and skills to get into formal training, and  this extra funding will make sure there is support in place so vulnerable young people can improve their lives.”