Young job seekers in North West Sydney to benefit from new Work for the Dole programme

North West Sydney is one of 18 areas selected under Coalition Government’s new Work for the Dole arrangements for young job seekers.

Federal member for Alex Hawke MP, Federal Member for Mitchell today announced 18 to 30 year olds in North West Sydney who have been unemployed for twelve months or more and receiving Newstart and/or Youth Allowance (other) will be required to do Work for the Dole in 2014/15.

Alex Hawke said from 1 July 2014 participants will complete around 15 hours per week for six months in a work-like environment.

“The Government’s reinvigorated Work for the Dole programme will give all participants the chance to have a go, Alex Hawke said.

“The Coalition Government firmly believes that all Australians capable of working should be working.  They should be earning, learning or Working for the Dole.

“Work for the Dole is an important part of the Government’s plan to help young job seekers gain the skills and experience they need to move from welfare to work and make a positive contribution to their local community.  It keeps job seekers engaged and active plus helps avoid a lifetime of welfare dependency.

Alex Hawke said the Government would appoint a Work for the Dole Coordinator for North West Sydney with tenders to be called this week.

“These Coordinators will have the vital, on-the-ground task of identifying local organisations willing to host a Work for the Dole place, and connecting those organisations with employment-service providers in the area,” concluded Alex Hawke MP.

Work for the Dole places will be sourced in not-for-profit organisations, local councils and federal and state government agencies.

The 18 selected areas is the first phase in the lead up to a national rollout of the programme in 2015. From 1 July 2015, all job seekers aged 18-30 and in receipt of Newstart Allowance and Youth Allowance (other) will be required to undertake Work for the Dole for 25 hours per week when in receipt of payment.

Further information on the tender for the Work for the Dole Coordinators will be available at www.tenders.gov.au from 29 May 2014.