Open Letter
Friday 14 February 2014
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Dear Mr. Abbott,
Educating young people and preparing them for work and life beyond school is a responsibility shared by schools, business and the broader community. Working alongside educators, business has a critical role to play as active partners in the learning and development of young Australians.
It is only by working together that schools, businesses and the broader community can improve student outcomes, create a more agile and responsive education and training sector, and develop young people who are qualified and work ready. Engaging businesses as active partners in education who contribute and influence the learning and development of their future workforce is central to this goal of improving student outcomes.
As partners in education, business has many strengths and a unique perspective to contribute. This includes supporting the development of occupation specific skills, as well as generic employability skills that prepare young people for the world of work.
However, making connections, developing relationships and building partnerships between the education and business sectors can be difficult. The two sectors have very different ways of approaching their work.
Partnership Brokers, acting as independent intermediaries, have proven to be an important asset in enabling business to build stronger connections with the education sector and form effective, enduring and mutually beneficial partnerships.
While improved education and transition outcomes for young people are the central purpose of these partnerships, engaging with schools and young people also provides benefits for business. Most importantly, partnerships enable business to play an active role in addressing the workforce development challenges that are holding many businesses back.
Australia’s network of Partnership Brokers is an important piece of infrastructure that supports business and builds the capacity of schools, businesses and community stakeholders to act collectively at a local, state and national level.
Given the broad ranging benefits to individuals, society and the nation, funding a program that supports the development of school, business and community partnerships is an important role for the Australian Government. With the continued support of the Partnership Brokers program, business is ready to maximise its contribution to the goal that all of us share; all young Australians reaching their full social and economic potential.
Carmen Auer Chair, Partnership Brokers National Network . .Support from our partners:
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Bailey Homes, South Australia
Principal
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Bailey Homes have been proud to be involved with the various projects undertaken and believe they are of great benefit to the people who are seeking employment. I strongly support the continued funding of the program as it has been huge success in our area.
I attended a workability forum that gave people an insight into what employers are looking for in a potential employee. The skills that the participants received during the day were invaluable in their preparation for seeking employment. It was great we had the opportunity to assist in providing an employer’s perspective. The participants on the day were extremely committed and the day would have been of great benefit to their future.
We also had the pleasure in supporting the practical work which was undertaken at our local Hospital. The quality of the students work was outstanding and the skills they learnt will be of a huge benefit as they approach potential employers in the construction industry.
As an employer I consider it imperative that funding is available to assist in the training and assisting of people to gain skills to enable themselves to enter the workforce. Money spent at this early stage (even if the government says they have no money to fund the program) is far better than having to pay some of these people unemployment benefits for many years in the future. It will also be assisting in our countries productivity and also the individual’s personal feeling of worth.
I also believe the Program in our area has been extremely well managed and is of great benefit to the local community.
TONY PLEASE DO NOT WITHDRAW YOUR FUNDING
National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples, New South Wales
Summer May Finlay, Policy Officer
Career Links runs a variety of school to work programs. One that I have been involved in is Yakka Day. Yakka Day offers young people the opportunity to have exposure a variety of careers and industries. It also allows them to experience the careers to understand what it might be like in reality. The young people benefit for the direct exposure to people working in the industries and ask questions. This will enable them to make informed career decisions.
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Bahatabah LALC, New South Wales
Mick Green, CEO
Career Links has been very important in developing a partnership between the (Bahtahbah LALC), with the community and local schools. Through the partnership we have created programs that help our young people reconnect to culture and develop strong ties with their community and Elders. Since being involved in these programs we have noticed that those participating in these programs have developed more confidence and hopefully are more motivated to stay at school.
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Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority, New South Wales
Toby Whaleboat, Aboriginal Catchment Officer
I am writing to you in appreciation for the assistance that Career Links has provided to the Aboriginal community, your good work ethic and commitment has benefited a lot of Aboriginal people. The services Career Links have provided such as the training programs have allowed many Aboriginal people to improve their skills and increase their knowledge. The ongoing support you provide through career pathways partnerships is invaluable in assisting students and apprentices to access employment opportunities. I have worked with you on the Yakka Day Event and in my previous position at Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Land Council on projects such as the Swansea High School Aboriginal Student Program and the Eastlake NAIDOC Week Committee. I have found you to be very professional in your approach and Career Links to be very supportive towards improving Aboriginal education and employment.
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Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tasmania
Michael Bailey, CEO
TL3 through the Partnership Brokers program has actively engaged with TCCI and its members. The brokers collaborate with TCCI’s Education and Training Adviser (Australian Government program) and have contributed to various activities across the skills and employment agenda including TCCI’s Skills Forums, activities to support employing people with disability and Tasmania’s Try A Skill events.
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Great Southern Aboriginal Health Service Western Australia Country Health Service, Western Australia
Dr. Alistair Pinto, Manager
I would like to offer my support on behalf of the Great Southern Aboriginal Health Service.
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Yugambeh Museum, Queensland
Rory O’Connor, Director
As a partnership broker with The Smith Family Karen Graham was instrumental in forming partnerships with Gold Coast Art Centre, Education Qld, Dreamworld, Logan City Council and Yugambeh Museum. In 2013 with these partnerships we launched a Write into Art program in SE Qld, and this year we are expanding throughout Qld. This also resulted in Yugambeh Museum winning two Awards – Museum Gallery Services Winner (staff under 4, 2013) Highly Commended Premier’s Reconciliation Award 2013 for Community. These partnerships created pride and opportunities within the Aboriginal community.
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Nutrition Australia ACT Inc., Australian Capital Territory
Lynette Brown, Executive Officer
The ACT Chamber of Commerce and Industry have been instrumental in their support and assistance in helping Nutrition Australia ACT Inc. (NA ACT) release its new healthy eating and food skills program Project Dinnertime. Project Dinnertime aims to inspire people to cook more meals from home more often. During Nutrition Week 2013 NA ACT launched the Project Dinnertime program with a particular emphasis on vulnerable youth/senior school aged children. The ACT Chamber of Commerce and Industry became the conduit that connected NA ACT’s Project Dinnertime program with the Tuggeranong Re-engaging Youth Network and its members including key community organisations building further support of the program (including The Good Guys Tuggeranong and Lake Tuggeranong College).
Project Dinnertime reached a record number of communities and individuals particularly those within regional areas with the support of The Good Guys nationally (resulting from initial connections with the ACT Chamber of Commerce and Industry). The aim of Project Dinnertime resonates with all Australians and has the potential to improve individual health outcomes at a national level.
NA ACT is continuing to progress Project Dinnertime in a targeted nature as we understand that when delivering cooking and food skills programs a ‘one size fits all’ approach will not achieve the best outcomes. Project Dinnertime now currently has the following targeted components:
- School to Home
- Simple Eats for Seniors
- Communities in the Kitchen
With further support and funding NA ACT plans to build further components of Project Dinnertime as follows: “Food for Families”, “Designer Dinners” and the “Living with…” series meeting the needs of individuals who live with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, overweight and obesity.
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Cardiff High School, New South Wales
Tracey Lloyd, Aboriginal Education Officer
Cardiff High School Aboriginal students attended the school to work event Yakka Day.
The practical “hands on” event for the students to try is wonderful. Yakka Day is very important as our kids often worry they might choose the wrong thing so they make no choice and get lost in society.
Yakka day helps with supplying them knowledge, as well as “hands on” experience and information that they would not have known. Many Students started reducing their career options as they found out what the position entails. This is a good thing as they come back to the school with a goal to increase their academic results choosing more appropriate subjects that are more suited to future careers.
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Ganbina Indigenous Organisation, Victoria
Anthony Cavanagh, CEO
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Wesley Mission, Queensland
Dr. Geoffrey Woolcock, Senior Research Fellow Quality and Research
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Griffith University, Queensland
Judith Kearney, Director, Community Partnerships
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Encyclopedia of Magic, South Australia
Vinh Giang, Director / Co-Founder
The Australian’s Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program has helped me connect with many schools in the northern suburbs of South Australia, it’s allowed me to share my share my story to help motivate the students to aspire to be more and grow. It’s been an amazing experience that would not have come about without the support of the brokers. We have many talented and successful entrepreneurs in our state and we need brokers to help connect the dots.
Happy to support your wonderful work!
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Horse Vision Centre, Western Australia
Christine Scott, Proprieter
The bringing together of school, business and community in this way achieves long term sustainable outcomes which benefit all involved.
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Devonfield Enterprises, Tasmania
Karin Febey, Manager, Devon Training and Employment
The role that I as industry trainer and employer, have had with TL3 in 2013 has been so fulfilling and extremely crucial in assisting our young people make decisions that will determine their futures. For me to have the access into schools representing the community sector and talking about jobs and the pathway to the industry has been very satisfying on a personal and professional level. This intervention is what is needed early in their education and programs such as work inspiration and CAPP/TAPP programs are crucial and will make a definite impact on shaping the minds of our students contemplating future employment in any industry sector. The continuing role of TL3 is important to say the least in connecting all partnerships together and drive this crucial intervention for our students. This support is invaluable to all concerned and must be an ongoing funded activity in our community where results are visible and tangible. TL3most definitely has my support and that of my organisation as we believe that industry has a role to play in contributing positively to the futures of our students.
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Chisholm Institute, Victoria
Peter Sells, Manager, Technical Training Centre
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Services Industry Training Advisory Council, Northern Territory
Melanie Brenton, Executive Officer
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National Disability Coordination Officer, New South Wales
Bernard Sobiesiak, NDCO
The School Business Community Partnership Brokers program is a key linkage that needs to continue. The transition process from school to education and/or employment needs to be as smooth as possible to ensure maximum success. My colleagues at the SIP Penrith are doing a fabulous job!
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Chefs for Australia, Queensland
David Tupper, Manager
As a partner in the industry we welcome any assistance we can give to young and inspired students and welcome the efforts and support contributed by the partnership brokers.
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MMMigration, New South Wales
Melanie Macfarlane, Chief Executive Officer
Very happy with experience of high school intern in business and to give him an eye opener into life in the real world beyond school.
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Baptist Care, South Australia
Anna Barton, General Manager, North
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Hames Sharley, Queensland
Brook McGowan, Associate
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Nortec Youth Services, New South Wales
Leanne Woods, Program Coordinator
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Department of Education, North Metropolitan Regional Education Office, Western Australia
Bruce Sherborne, Engagement and Transitions Manager
Partnership Brokers have provided crucial relational and strategic links for schools to engage and develop partnerships with community and business to further strengthen opportunities for students to gain attainment and make successful transitions. The Partnership Brokers strategic focus and mapping has also helped identify gaps in services which has supported the development of both Department and Regional planning of programs and initiatives to address service gaps and issues between schools, business and community and in particular to support better engagement of students to make successful transitions into further education, training and employment pathways. The ability to have a neutral broker to work at a strategic level and do the ground work and bring all parties together to achieve an outcome that otherwise would not have happened has been invaluable.
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City of Casey, Victoria
David Wilkinson, Director, Economic Development
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Presbyterian Care, Tasmania
Anita Fahey, Manager Special Projects
Working with Partnership Brokers has enabled us to approach the interface between schools and our organisation with a new and refreshing concept. This concept has already proved to be successful with students now volunteering with us with the prospect of more permanent employment.
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Panthers Group, New South Wales
Kristen Durkin, Human Resources Manager
The Schools Industry Partnership ensures that business working with schools is a seamless and valuable exercise to employers and students alike. The assistance, advice and support that we as employers receive from the Schools Industry Partnership is greatly appreciated and highly regarded.
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Charters Towers Chamber of Commerce and Mines, Queensland
Wayne Miller, President
We, the business members of the Charters Towers Chamber of Commerce and Mines, would like to support the Partnership Brokers for the continued funding of the Youth Attainment and Transitions programme.
We fully support the development of schools, businesses and the broader community working together to improve student outcomes. However we are mindful of the fact that, being volunteers in the struggle to increase community cohesion and to further the aims and objectives of our business members, we do not have the time to spend organising and maintaining partnerships amongst key players in order to address workforce development challenges.
As a result of an initial meeting between our local schools and business members we have already witnessed the start of the development of discussion around the occupation specific skills as well as frank and open dialogue concerning the generic employment skills that will prepare young people for their working life. We have one State High School, three Private Boarding Schools and a large number of young people enrolled in Distance Education here in Charters Towers, North Queensland and the initial meeting between these schools and our business community was organised by a member of Partnership Brokers.
We are very keen to continue this partnership, as we already see the benefits to be gained by young people, employers and society in general, and feel the ongoing funding of the programme as being an important role for the Australian Government.
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Whyalla Aged Care Inc., South Australia
Jenny Knight, HR Manager
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Bendigo Bank, Busselton and Dunsborough Community Bank Branch, Western Australia
Caroline Lill, Chairman
GSEDC has been an effective conduit between local business/education entities. It has provided valuable networking connections in a short timeframe. In particular Robyn Clark can work with many different groups and address them in a meaningful way. The Community Bank® would definitely support the renewal of this program.
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Good Start Early Learning, Fairfield Heights, New South Wales
Sharon Ho, Centre Director
I support the re-funding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program. Thanks!
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Airchange Australia Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Steve Atherton, Director & CEO
Our local partnership brokers were instrumental in the formation of the Southern Strength Agile Manufacturing Network which assists Australian manufacturers with up to date training on manufacturing issues, business development and access to local and international markets.
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Shire of Plantagenet, Western Australia
Rob Stewart, CEO
Nicole Selensaw, Manager Community Services
Kathryn Dye, Manager Library Services
The Shire of Plantagenet is a strong supporter of programs that help prepare young people for the workplace. The Shire has hosted a number of trainees and supports work based placements and work experience opportunities. We believe that positive experiences in the work place helps young people transition smoothly from education into jobs and helps them retain their jobs.
The role of Partnership Brokers to assist businesses and young people have a positive experience is very important.
Without Broker involvement, many small businesses do not have the time or resources to engage with young people. This often results in young people not enjoying their work based time and businesses being unsatisfied with their interaction. Over time, these poor experiences will lead to fewer opportunities for young people to experience a work place prior to leaving school.
The value of Partnership Brokers to helping young people gain employment and to become a valuable resource to business is important to our community.
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Queensland Museum, Queensland
Ben Hamley, Manager Audience Research, Strategy and Advocacy
The Partnership Broker program introduced us to Work Inspirations, which is the most natural and effective way of introducing new talent to industries which are not highly visible to students leaving school, and building critical skills for decision making in uncertainty in school leavers. It is invaluable and a program we will always support.
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Outrigger Little Hastings Street, Queensland
Niel Mason, General Manager
The Brokers program is, in my opinion, essential to the community. We have measurable outcomes with the SBSHS and with service delivery and training improvements at the Resort as a direct result of the introductions and partnerships of QYIL.
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Ashmore Engineering, South Australia
Andre Smith, Business Development Manager
The School Business Community Partnership Brokers program has been an invaluable conduit for us to engage with emerging talent in the manufacturing field. Having the opportunity to meet and work with students, to showcase our business to them, and to see their skills and work within our business has established relationships that we hope to develop into the future.
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Heartland Holden, New South Wales
John Veitch, Dealer Principal
The continuation of the Partnership Broker program is essential to our support of education in our local community.
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Pacific Fair, Queensland
Linda Frewin, Senior Marketing Manager
Absolutely enjoyed being part of this program and working with the next generation.
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Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Western Australia
Grant Shipp, CEO
The Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program has been invaluable for Esperance. Being a remote and isolated community it is imperative that we work together to deliver what other centres may take for granted. The Partnership Brokers provided the forum and the focus to ensure that this was taking place. This resulted in some fantastic outcomes that delivered real benefits to the young people, schools and businesses and overall community. We commend the program and sincerely hope to see it carried on in the future.
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Regional Development Australia, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Russell Mason, CEO
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Microsoft Australia, New South Wales
Katrina Wong, Technical Account Manager
Microsoft Australia has partnered with 2realise in the delivery of the Industry Bite Size pilot program. We have found the Industry Bite Size program to be invaluable and would like to continue as a partner in this program.
2realise works with Microsoft Australia to increase young people’s access to career development opportunities and pathways into employment, education and training.
Through our Industry Bite Sized visits, students have been given the chance to explore a variety of career paths in the technology industry, including technical roles as well as functions such as marketing, sales, HR, finance and legal.
2realise’s Industry Bite Size program is a great opportunity for us to reach students who are female, or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, which are two key demographics which are currently under-represented across the technology industry.
In my experience, 2realise is an organisation which demonstrates best practice and service innovation.
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Penrith Christian School, New South Wales
Michael Geeves, Principal
The Penrith Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains Schools Industry Partnership have provided invaluable brokerage, assistance and support in building links with business and industry towards setting up Action Teams for Partnership for the Trade Training Centre courses offered across the independent schools of the KEY Alliance. Penrith Christian School as the lead school of the Alliance could not have done this without them.
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Western Meat Exporters, Queensland
Tanya Sentinella, HR Manager
Western Meat Exporters Pty Ltd supports the work carried out by the YouthInvest co-ordinator across South West Queensland.
We have worked collaboratively with relevant Partnership Brokers in the South West Queensland region over the past 12 months with the goal of providing support to our local community including school students at risk of being disengaged and failing to complete their necessary education.
YouthInvest has been an integral part of the organisation of our Youth Employment Program in partnership with our region’s schools.
We fully support the continuation of this program in South West Queensland.
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eNTITy1, Northern Territory
Graeme Sawyer, Managing Director
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Anglicare Packenham, Victoria
Cathie Valentine, Manager
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Green Frog Studios, Western Australia
Philip Shelton, Manager
Partnership brokers have clearly demonstrated a commitment to coordinating community groups of a common purpose to make best use of available resources. They have also demonstrated the capacity to achieve this with admin support, well managed collaborative meetings and importantly, following through on task commitments. I believe the Partnership Brokers services essential to the success of Re-cycle Bike/Alternative education program so far.
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Glendale Technology High School, New South Wales
Paul Gilmore, Principal
I continue to support the invaluable links provided through the Partnership Broker Program that allows Glendale Technology High school to deliver on educational pathways and outcomes for students.
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The Honorable Colin Holt MLC, Western Australia
Colin Holt, Member of the Legislative Council for the South Western Region
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Airds High School, New South Wales
Jeff Miezio, Deputy Principal
We find it beneficial to have a Partnership Broker to assist with those students who are disengaged with school. We need to develop more options and support for schools in dealing with these students.
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Complete Personnel, South Australia
Sue James, Manager
Complete Personnel and Eyre Future’s work collaboratively to engage young people into suitable activities, including employment and education. Complete Personnel has worked with
Eyre Future’s since 2009 creating opportunities for young people to develop and achieve their goals. Eyre Future’s offers youth development programs, counselling services, community events, family days, employment, and advocacy for young people, holiday and weekend after school activities, and educational programs.
The target group for the Eyre Future’s program includes many young people who are unemployed and disengaged from formal education and it is an opportunity for them to develop confidence and communication/ relationship skills.
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Griffith Connections, New South Wales
Margaret Andreazza, Project Officer
Happy to support having the Partnerships Brokers program continue – you guys play an important role in linking students to businesses
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St Martins Lutheran College, South Australia
Diane Eckerman, Principal
We have received invaluable assistance, particularly for our most vulnerable students through this program. The work with humanitarian refugees was relevant and targeted to their unique needs.
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MSIT, Queensland
Julia Thaggard, Director, Training and Delivery Solutions
Your organisation has been invaluable in linking us to schools as well as multi-cultural organisations.
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Townsville Enterprise, Queensland
Jo Marks, Indigenous Employment Project Officer
The Townsville Enterprise Limited Indigenous Employment Project (TEL IEP) has worked directly with YouthInvest Strategic Partnership Brokers since the commencement of the Project and truly values its goal to help all young Australians reach their full social and economic potential.
We recognise the valuable support YouthInvest Strategic Partnership Brokers provides students in preparing for work and life beyond school and acknowledge the organisation’s great work in building stronger connections with the education sector and business community. We also acknowledge the vital assistance it provides to individuals from diverse back grounds, including Indigenous students within the Townsville North Queensland community.
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Woodridge State School, Queensland
Anna Lynch, Mobility Support Teacher
The partnership has had an amazing effect with our students, parents and community; we look forward to continue the support and partnership for the future.
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Action Teams for Partnerships, Jamison High School, New South Wales
Sue Day, Chairperson
For the first time, real actions are helping our youth. This partnership provides a framework that really works. It brings together the 3 most important aspects of young people’s lives. It provides solid support and teaches them real skills which set them up to deal with their working life. It help them become confident in their abilities, this in turns positively contributes to our local communities.
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Albright & Wilson, New South Wales
Ray Cranke, General Manager
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Currumbin RSL, Queensland
Kerry Shepherd, Community Relationships Manager
We have worked with Partnership Brokers (Judy Seth from our area) in relation to our Community Benefit Fund and engaging with schools and other community groups. Some programs that we have collaborated on include: “Ready, Steady, Food” – giving students hands on experience within our kitchen, real insight and opportunities for the hospitality industry, GetSmart IT Workshops – Palm Beach Currumbin High School students teaching older members of the community smart phone and tablet usage, Culinary Challenge – cooking based education and competitions, Thrower House Holiday Workshop programs – mocktail and pizza making.
We believe Partnership Brokers are the conduit between many groups within the community ensuring collaboration and engagement across many sectors. In our experience, their representatives’ ideas are creative and implementation always successful. We applaud Partnership Brokers and support the continuation of their role in the community.
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Lamp Inc., Western Australia
Lorrae Loud, CEO
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Mentors for our Schools, New South Wales
Don Sharp, Vice President
Without the valued support of Career Links and its staff, Mentors for Our Schools would not be in the position that we are today, mentoring in EIGHT schools in the Hunter region of New South Wales. Their assistance is greatly appreciated and we hope that this will continue into the future as we try to mentor in more schools. Giving our youth a better start in life, knowing that they have choices to make which will affect their futures.
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Future Achievement Australia, New South Wales
Sue Booth, Project Manager and Coach
I support the re-funding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
I have been associated with our organisation since 2012 through a business network and became more familiar with the work you do through one of your consultants.
Ampha has been invaluable in helping our business deliver leadership skills into high schools in the Liverpool and Fairfield LGAs.
In her role she was able to open doors for our project managers to gain access to businesses and community organisations that we were finding it difficult to connect with.
The young adults in the Max Potential program gained access to organisations in order to conduct their volunteer work that we were not able to connect with.
SWConnect also promoted our youth leadership program in one of their magazines helping us to gain much greater access and brand awareness across the Fairfield and Liverpool LGAs.
SWConnect are well respected in all sectors of the community and have a good reputation for advocating for youth and providing great opportunities for them to with business allowing young adults to grow in confidence and skills that give them a much broader skillset for life after school.
I fully support their submission for continued funding to allow their important work to benefit the communities in which they act.
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Southern Aboriginal Corporation, Western Australia
Paul Beattie, Employment Programs Manager
The Southern Aboriginal Corporation looks forward to continuing to work with the Partnership Brokers program toward achieving sustainable outcomes for young Aboriginal people of the region.
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Easternwell Camp Management, Queensland
Marco Waanders, General Manager
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Muru Mittigar Ltd., New South Wales
Cath James, Enterprise Development Manager
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My Health Career, Queensland
Amanda Griffiths, Director
As a health professional assisting the next generation to find out whether a career in health is right for them, I attended many careers events in 2013. The Partnership Broker events on the Sunshine Coast, in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast were well thought out and provided students with real insights and hands on experiences. I believe these events provide excellent value for the government’s money as a relatively small outlay now saves large sums of money in student attrition and course changes in tertiary institutions later.
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Gold Coast City Marina, Queensland
Kym Fleet, Operations Manager
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Rydges South Bank Hotel, Queensland
Pamela Lester, Human Resources Manager
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GoGetta Job, Queensland
Cherie Thompson, Founder & CEO
Partnership Brokers play an essential role in bringing Schools, Business and Communities together by keeping them well informed and connected as a whole Community. Honi and the Worklinks Partnership Brokers played a pivotal part in helping us launch GoGetta Job – Jobs for YOUth. Without their help In bringing the local stakeholders together, our company would not of been able to reach and provide the much needed information that not only makes a difference, but a service that is of great benefit to youth, society and the future of our nation.
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Kelly Engineering, South Australia
Brenton Badenoch, Business Manager
Our company supports the sentiments outlined in the attached letter.
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Nepean Community and Neighbourhood Services, New South Wales
Joy Impiombato, General Manager
This project has been integral in connecting the occasionally silo-ed education & training sectors with industry, commerce and business throughout Western Sydney. There is no project doing this important job.
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Sachas, New South Wales
Sacha, Founder
I have been involved with SIP over the last few years as a speaker for their Annual Award Evenings. At each event, I was enlightened by the amount of young people that SIP has been able to help with prospective jobs, careers and training. More importantly, SIP’s work has opened up new possibilities and opportunities that these young people might not have had before. I believe that positively influencing one young person is already an achievement. SIP hasn’t just influenced one young person. It has influenced many young people and I think that is an incredible achievement. Government, I ask that you continue providing funding to SIP and similar organisations so that they can continue doing their great work.
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Energy Skills Queensland, Queensland
Kerry Fullarton, Coordinator, Queensland Workforce Skilling Strategy
The forums were beneficial and a good opportunity for Energy Skills Queensland to network with stakeholders participating in partnerships to share resources and expertise to build capacity and capabilities and reduce duplication.
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Via Italia, Queensland
Luke Searson, Owner & Head Chef
Lee Shea introduced this program to us early last year which led us to working closely with local schools in helping them develop and educate students for real situations in the restaurant industry. For us the benefits have been perfect by having closer connections in developing staff for our industry we can explain the changes that have happened what the future can hold and even inspire potential students into careers that they may not known about. Our Industry has to evolve constantly to stay ahead of the game and when the staff come to us with knowledge and understanding it saves us crucial time, money and quite literally headaches. We have found with Lee and the program numerous problems regarding the gap between school and workforce being filled. Much appreciation and were more than willing to participate for long time into the future.
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Rural Skills Australia (Tasmania), Tasmania
Roger Tyshing, Education and Training Adviser and facilitator for the Discover Agriculture Programs
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Key Alliance, New South Wales
Michael Geeves, Coordinator
The Penrith Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains Schools Industry Partnership have provided invaluable brokerage, assistance and support in building links with business and industry towards setting up Action Teams for Partnership for the Trade Training Centre courses offered across the independent schools of the KEY Alliance. Penrith Christian School as the lead school of the Alliance could not have done this without them.
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Fairfield City Council, New South Wales
Julianne Christie, Economic Development Officer
Fairfield City Council continues to support the re-funding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership program. Council has a long and very productive relationship with the program and is proud to support the continued funding. The program provides for experiences and opportunity that otherwise would not be available for the young people of Fairfield City due to our high levels of social and economic disadvantage. The program and the work of South West Connect has been instrumental in raising awareness and connectivity of the business community to their own future workforce. These activities do need to be managed and South West Connect is the ideal organisation to continue this valuable work and continue to assist in breaking cycles of disadvantage, welfare and poverty.
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Holroyd City Council, New South Wales
Helen Connell, Human Resources Manager
As a local government employer our goal is to be connected to our community. Our partnership with South West Connect over the past years has seen us roll out many targeted programs, in particular to the youth within our community, to provide employment options and career pathways to improve their employability prospects and expand their career horizons. These programs are vital to helping young people and people from diverse backgrounds in our community gain an insight to the employment sector within Australia.
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Independent Grocers, Northern Territory
Peter de Jonge, Operations Manager
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Skillhire, Western Australia
Jason Searle, Youth Worker
In my role as a Youth Worker I have found my involvement with Partnership Brokers to be totally indispensable. Almost all of the youth programs I run in Esperance would not have happened if not for the diligence of Partnership Brokers. In all my dealings I have been met with extreme professionalism, positivity and creativeness. I thank them everyday just for existing.
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Edward John Eyre High School, South Australia
Paul Havelberg, Principal
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Southern Prospect Pty Ltd, Tasmania
Lee Whiteley, Managing Director
Southern Prospect partnered with TL3 and Yolla District School to undertake an irrigation project at our manufacturing facilities in Wynyard Tasmania. The students were inducted to the site, provided with OHS briefings and given a presentation of the business. They attended the site regularly over a period of several weeks and became very familiar with the operation and the challenges associated with working on a ‘live’ site. The students were involved with designing, installing and testing the system which provided a great opportunity to see the project from start to finish. An invaluable experience for all parties.
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Penrith Business Alliance, New South Wales
Bijai Kumar, CEO
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Advanced Personnel Management, Queensland
David Swayn, Senior Employment Consultant
Thank you for the linkages that allowed the Science in Agriculture program. Our clients enjoyed this immensely, and it was very well brokered and put together.
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Lend Lease, Queensland
Nicky Graham, Coordinator, Learning and Development
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Town of Bassendean, Western Australia
Greg Neri, Manager – Youth Services
The program has been integral to the development of a regional driver training partnership.
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Police Citizens Youth Clubs, New South Wales
John Mills, General Manager Club Development
Career Links partnership projects have provided great benefits for young people and the general community. They have helped provide skills and opportunities to young people that will be invaluable as they progress through their lives to become young adults.
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Hunter Sports High School, New South Wales
Louise Gallagher, Principal
I am writing in support of Career Links whose partnership projects improve outcomes for our students and connections with our community. I look forward to Hunter Sports High School being able to work with them in the future.
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Pathways to Resilience Trust, Queensland
Kate Keighron, Community Relations Manager
This organisation has proved invaluable by connecting with likeminded organisations which enables us to promote the work of the Trust to reach those who are in disadvantaged areas.
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Holly Eva, New South Wales
Holly Eva, Artist
I have loved working with MWLP, especially Amber. There are so many kids teens and parents that are looking for support and businesses that they can trust, I was very honoured to be a part of an inspirational and honest business, furthermore I would love to work again supporting MWLP and I hope to see them in the near future.
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Education and Training Services and Projects Pty Ltd, New South Wales
John Collins, CEO
Public secondary schools in particular are so over-governed and administered it is difficult for staff to look outside their departments, and to appreciate fully the complexity of their relationships with their social and industrial communities.
That is where independent Partnership Brokers play their part.
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Purrimaibahn Aboriginal Education and Training Unit, New South Wales
Marie Saggus, Aboriginal Faculty and Community Partner
Through contact opportunities provided by Career Links such as Yakka Day and working with local Aboriginal land councils students have been introduced to many career opportunities.
Career Links has also provided us with opportunities that didn’t exist before to reach out to students (and their parents), who are just about to leave school. Through these opportunities we have had many more students take up the opportunity to do a range accredited training courses that have led to career prospects.
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The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital, Queensland
Adriana Leonardi, Acting General Manager
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UBalancer Coaching Pty Ltd, Queensland
Alison Lalieu, Director
UBalancer Coaching Pty Ltd uses a collaborative framework to develop a program best suited to our clients’ needs and goals (both for students and the business people who are coaching them using our UBalancer online tool). Our approach is to be flexible and look to incorporate the UBalancer tool in the most relevant and effective way to support individual well-being. Our Director, Alison Lalieu, continuously monitors projects to identify any possible opportunities to enhance the partnership between schools, business and the community.
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Gold Coast Medicare Local, Queensland
Sara Drew, Program Manager-n Primary Health Care (including workforce)
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The Rogue & Rouge Foundation, Queensland
Nicole Gibson, CEO & Founder
The Partnership Brokers are an incredible valuable and integral part of the community sector. My experience has only ever been positive, and together we’ve been able to achieve some great outcomes.
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Primo Australia Port Wakefield Abattoir, South Australia
Grant Manners, Human Resources Advisor
Will become an important component of the Company’s future recruiting program.
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Rio Tinto, Western Australia
Justin Francesconi, Employment and Engagement Supervisor – south West & great Southern Regions.
PB Ladies, you both do an exceptional job…… unfortunately I can only support this from a personal level.
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Lanacoora Chillies, Queensland
Katrina Faulkes-Leng, Owner/operator
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Gold Coast Institute of TAFE, Queensland
Deb Blow, Director of Faculty
Essential service to ongoing support for developing partnerships between a range of stakeholders in education/workforce/schools etc.
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Australian Culinary Federation QLD, Queensland
Bruno Gentile, President Australian Culinary Federation QLD
The Partnership Broker Program provides a conduit between schools and industry and has assisted us to develop workforce solutions in to skill shortage professions by attracting young people into future career pathways within the Hospitality Industry.
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STARTTS, New South Wales
Lina Ishu, Senior Youth Project Officer
I support the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Yamaha Motor Australia Pty Ltd, Queensland
Martin Dwyer, Manager, Training, Customer Relations and Warranty
We support your efforts to have the Government continue the funding.
Our activities promoting our industry and job opportunities in general could not have been achieved without the partnership brokers.
While we could have gone to individual schools on our own I firmly believe having the PB`s as part of the process made the planning and organisation that much easier and the outcomes for students that much better.
While we have not seen significant changes to our Dealer`s workforce as a direct result of our program we know the knowledge and experience we have shared with the schools and students is an investment in future growth. “All good things take time to bear fruit”. Our experience with “Work Inspiration” has added a valuable activity to our Student Grand Prix , helping our youth better understand themselves, the work environment and potential career paths. Albeit small, it has added another dimension to the activities of our staff. All involved come away with a sense of achievement knowing they have contributed to Yamaha`s social responsibilities and the development of our youth. Again, outcomes that could not have been realised without the involvement of the Partnership Brokers.
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MEGT Australian Apprenticeships Centre, Tasmania
Damian Peirce, Business Relationships Manager Tasmania
TL3 provide a terrific product to the cohort they work with, I’d have no hesitation in supporting any endeavour they chose to set their mind to. TL3 are a progressive, forward thinking and supportive organisation that are a terrific business partner to us.
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Leeton Shire Council, New South Wales
Lyn Williams, Manager Community Services
Leeton Shire Council has worked collaboratively with our area’s partnership broker “Getset” a number of times on beneficial programs for our Community. Having that link directly into the schools through “Getset” has been invaluable in identifying and coordinating opportunities that support our young population.
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TAFE NSW Riverina Institute – Griffith Campus, New South Wales
Peter, Head of Department, Vocational Access Griffith, Temora, West Wyalong & Lake Cargelligo
TAFE NSW Riverina Institute supports the continuation of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program. Partnership Brokers play a critical role in the Griffith district. They forge important links between TAFE, schools and other service agencies. They relate to young people and have a proven track record in improving not only educational outcomes but life options for their clients.
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Saint Joseph’s College Albany, Western Australia
Mr Brad Hall, Principal
The Partnership Brokers programme has been very successful in creating opportunities for young people in the Great Southern to be engaged in further training and education, leading to employment and assisting the local economy with the provision of a more skilled workforce.
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Warner’s Nurseries, Victoria
Michael Warner, Managing Director
Student based work experience is more important than a multitude of classroom based qualifications.
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City of Greater Dandenong, Victoria
Katharina Verscharen, Manager Youth Services
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Link Employment and Training, Victoria
Terry Brehney, General Manager
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Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina, New South Wales
Ms Lani Houston, CEO
RDA Riverina has worked with a number of 3 partnership brokers that have covered LGA’s in the RDA Riverina region. The Partnership Brokers have played a vital communication role between schools, business, government agencies & community in regard to education and skill development outcomes.
Partnership Brokers played an important role in the following 4 projects in the Riverina region that RDA Riverina was also involved in. These include:-
A key stakeholder in the Riverina Agriculture Education Alliance was on focusing skill development for the agriculture sector.
Facilitator for Youth Mental Health Forums supporting well being in youth. The forums were conducted in Griffith & Wagga Wagga in 2012 & 2013 but involve students from across the whole region.
A stakeholder in the Re-engagement Centre at Griffith High & Wade High School for disengaged young people.
A stakeholder in the Riverina Early Childhood Strategic Leadership & Development Network. Leadership & skill development for those within or aspiring to be involved in early childhood development.
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Cosway Projects Services Consultant Mechanical Engineers and Project Managers, Tasmania
Russell Fyfe, General Manager
I support the work being done by TL3 who I have assisted in the past
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Crowhurst Engineering, Northern Territory
Geoff Crowhurst, Managing Director
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Transport, Engineering & Automotive Training Advisory Council Inc., Northern Territory
Terry Lawler, EO
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Stockland, Queensland
Lauren Cassar, National Community Development Manager
The Partnership Broker Network has been invaluable to Stockland in connecting us to schools within our communities but to also guide us in developing relationships to find mutual benefit for both our company and staff being able to engage productively with students and also for the schools in being able to identify how they can achieve lasting benefits for students in becoming job ready and job and career wise through hands on and practical applications during their senior years at school. Without the Partnership Brokers Network, the students in our catchments would likely continue along the path of having little understanding of the real world of work and many varied career opportunities within our economy, limiting their opportunities for gainful and long lasting employment.
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Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland, Queensland
Carlee Hay, Education Manager
Working with the School Business Community Partnership Brokers program has assisted us in many areas and allowed us to partner with schools and businesses that we may not have normally gained access.
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Nepean Careers Forum, New South Wales
Jeanette Camillos, Chairperson
Our local Partnership Brokers provide an invaluable service to our schools. The industry connections they help to establish and nourish are a powerful tool for educators assisting young people with their transitions from school to work.
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Health and Community Services Workforce Council, Queensland
Wallis Westbrook, Executive Director
Health & Community Services is one of the largest employers in Australia. Partnership Brokers play an important role by raising awareness of career pathways and opportunities to our industry support it growth now and into the future.
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The Co-op, Heart of the Barossa, South Australia
Paul Amos, People Relations Manager
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The Tanunda Club Inc, South Australia
Jack Ferrett, CEO
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Barossa Bushgardens, South Australia
Kate Jenkins, Chairperson
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Relative Creative, Queensland
Tristan Schultz, Founder
Karen Graham at Partnership Brokers has provided invaluable links on numerous occasions from which my business has been able to grow and further entrench its foundations in community engagement projects with schools and cultural events.
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Lake Macquarie High School, New South Wales
Jenny McEwan, Deputy Principal
This program has delivered fantastic outcomes for our students and true collaboration with neighbouring schools. In particular, the support of the PB in preparing the NAB Schools First submission in 2013 was vital in helping the partnership to win a $30,000 award. I whole heartedly support this important program in the future.
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Taylors Wines, South Australia
Nick Mellow, Human Resource Manager
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The Communications Council, Queensland
Hanns Bergs, Manager, Member Services & Professional Development, Qld
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Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service, Queensland
Annette Faithfull-Byrne, Nursing Director: Education, Staff Development and Research
In partnership with QYILs we have successfully run the Sunshine coast High School Health Engagement Program for several years. In excess of 400 students have completed the program with significant outcomes. Without our broker the program is not sustainable.
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Northside Marine, Queensland
Greg Nickerson, Managing Director
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Great Southern Development Commission, Western Australia
Russell Pritchard, Regional Manager – Industry and Infrastructure
The GSDC is supportive of the Partnership Broker program and its achievements for the Great Southern region.
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Nexus Business Growth Solutions, New South Wales
Anil Puri, Owner
Yes, more than happy to support this letter.
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South Coast Natural Resource Management, Western Australia
Carl Beck, CEO
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Humanise, New South Wales
Martin Rogers, CEO
The Partnership Broker Network is an integral part of our business strategy with our National rollout of ‘Humanise the Next Generation’ in connecting our business members with local schools and developing ongoing sustainable relationships to enhance the education of our youth.
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TAFE NSW WorldSkills Unit, New South Wales
Adam Lucas, NSW State Manager
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North Coast Region, Department of Education, Training and Employment, Queensland
John Suthers, Acting Director – Training
Our regions interaction with Sustainable Partnerships Australia has for many years achieved the strategic intent and purpose of both organisations goals to build and develop effective partnerships that meet real community needs. Sustainable Partnerships Australia –formally Queensland Youth Industry Links (QYIL) is a valuable service provider acknowledged by many as a key strategic player committed to excellence and outcomes.
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North Coast Region, Department of Education, Training and Employment, Queensland
Carol Gollschewsky, Regional Youth Support Coordinator
In the last 3 years, through the DETE / PB collaboration process there has been extensive consultation with school principals and staff, community organisations and industry – that have resulted in a range of programs and partnerships that respond to identified and localised need. Outcomes include increased effectiveness in delivering targeted support or services students, schools and communities and enhanced understandings about issues affecting young people. These partnerships have been invaluable in creating community connectedness and ongoing opportunities for youth attainment and transitions. The partnership brokers have been key school/ community / industry program facilitators for North Coast Region and their collaboration and expertise a highly valued resource for schools and regional office.
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Shaw Family Vintners, South Australia
Philip Shaw, Managing Director
It was a positive experience for the staff of Shaw Family Vintners to be involved in The School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Queensland Health, Queensland
Kylie Boccuzzi, Coordinator, Learning & Development
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Warren Central School, New South Wales
William White, Principal
Totally invaluable, as it allows for all members of the school and community to work together to improve the learning in the school and the life of the community.
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Brewarrina Central School, New South Wales
Peter Morgan, Executive Principal
The Centacare partnership broker has been critical support to our innovative approach to student learning in the community. The Partnership Broker has skills and tools that isolated schools lack. The program is flexible and able to adapt to the Brewarrina context. As a result of our collaboration our school had an effective work experience program for the first time in 5 years, in 2013. This year we are planning weekly internships for Year 9 and further work placements for YRs 10& 11.
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Lightning Ridge Central School, New South Wales
Kerry Adaimthwaith, Principal
Really happy with the partnership broker and their support to the school and facilitating stakeholder agencies to support disengaged students.
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Construction Skills Queensland, Queensland
Rod Eske, Pre Trade Manager
I am an avid supporter of the Australian network of Partnership Brokers.
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Stones Throw Consulting, Queensland
Kris McCue, Director
SPA has made a significant positive impact across the region at both a strategic and operational level, resulting in wide range of benefits for young people transitioning from school to work.
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St Arnaud Secondary College, Victoria
Branko Lukic, Principal
In the relatively short time I have been principal at St Arnaud Secondary College, I have witnessed firsthand the important work that the Partnerships Broker program does, more importantly though are the powerful and meaningful outcomes achieved. A small example, we are currently involved in a “Building bridges program” which is forming connections between the farming, local government and health sectors of the local community and the college. This program will see the college curriculum adapted to reflect community needs and facilitate students being mentored and provided with opportunities to engage first hand with these sectors.
Something which would not have been possible without such a program.
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Walgett Central School, New South Wales
Melissa Ozou, Head Teacher Secondary Studies / Career Advisor
Great to work with in helping the school to engage with business and community.
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Mission Australia, New South Wales
Mark Willis, Acting Program Manager
Working closely together , cooperate approach in investigating the needs of the community and coming up with the solutions in the gaps of service delivery.
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Dubbo City Council, New South Wales
Jason Yelverton, Youth Development Officer
Rural and outlying communities have benefited greatly through the creation of partnership with organisation that now work collaboratively to support education and industry.
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University of South Australia, School of Health Sciences, South Australia
Dr Richard McGrath, Lecturer in Health Sciences
The Partnership Brokers program has been an excellent opportunity to connect tertiary students with a diversity of community partners and community members. Tertiary students need to connect to local community organisations as a key aspect of their training. Through working with the Partnership Brokers program we have been able to provide opportunities for our students to work alongside a number of different community and business groups. This is a vital service that requires ongoing support and funding.
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Donald High School, Victoria
Paul Aikman, Principal
The role of the Partnership Brokers / LLEN’s is vital in supporting the link between businesses and schools and is also a supportive link for schools to access specialist training programs and specialist funding.
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University of South Australia, South Australia
Dr Natalie Parletta, Senior Research Fellow
The Partnership Broker program does some very important work linking community organisations and universities to improve outcomes for disadvantaged youth.
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LAING O’ROURKE, New South Wales
Susan Crawford, Community Relations Manager
We value the contribution of Partnership Brokers in enabling activities to facilitate our connection with students in schools who are interested in choosing career paths in the Construction Industry.
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Inspirations Garden Centre, Tasmania
David and Janette Kenyon, Owner / Managers
We have thoroughly enjoyed and benefitted from our involvement with the programme. There have been significant benefits for all the partners, and most especially for the students we are working with.
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St Patrick’s Technical College, South Australia
Patrick Kelly, Business Development Manager
We have enjoyed great successes working with Partnership Brokers in assisting our efforts to introduce students to potential employers and our College to innovative projects.
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ARCS Building Group, New South Wales
Phillip Grueff, Owner
We fully support the continuation of the Partnership Broker program which is a most valuable link to business in their support of youth education.
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Tickled Pink, Queensland
Laura Clarke, Coordinator
The benefit of having a partnership broker to connect the community group I represent with the education and business sectors is indicative in the outcomes our organisation has been able to achieve through connections that would not have been readily made without the PB support.
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Central Highlands Development Corporation, Queensland
Sandra Hobbs, General Manager
Enabling education sector divisions, businesses and community to enhance skills, grow and collaborate is a key point of interest in the Central Highlands Economic Development Strategy that assists in facilitating the continued economic and regional growth for the region which is reflected in YouthInvest – Partnership Brokers program projects such as the Emerald and Surrounds Alternate Learning Centre and Website Development for SME’s.
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Wedderburn College, Victoria
Margaret-Anne Wright, Principal…
Wycheproof P-12 College, Victoria
Christine McKersie, Principal
The NCLLEN/PB has facilitated the development of many pivotal partnerships for our school resulting in numerous benefits for all our rural students including enabling some of our more vulnerable youth to remain connected to an educational pathway. We are a better school because of the influence of various initiatives implemented by the NCLLEN/PB.
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Saluté Oliva Pty. Ltd., Victoria
Peter Eicher, Director
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Jamison High School, New South Wales
Greg Lill, Principal
The Jamison HS Action Team for Partnerships (ATP), a successful National Partnerships – Partnership Brokers initiative, is an invaluable addition to the comprehensive range of strategies supporting the academic and personal growth of Jamison High School students. It organises and sustains a program of school, family, business and community partnerships. Our ATP consists of teachers, parents community members and local council representatives who work together to connect family and community involvement with Jamison High School’s school improvement goals.
The Jamison HS ATP continues to support the school / community links by:
- Creating a welcoming school environment for families by improving communication between school and home. Initiatives have included a communication survey leading to the ongoing development of a comprehensive and a positively evaluated Facebook site. This provides up to date information about school activities and promoting accessible two-way communication between Jamison HS, parents and the wider community. Usage rates continue to grow to outstanding levels strengthening community links with the school.
- Engaging families, business and the community in ways that support student achievement and success. Highly successful initiatives have included the JAG EXPO (Jamison HS Agricultural Expo) which has provided a vehicle for the active participation of an extensive range of individuals, educational institutions and businesses in promoting Agriculture within the school and as a dynamic, vital industry in the Penrith Valley community and beyond. It is always very positively evaluated across all participants and continues to strengthen Jamison HS’s links with the broader community.
- Keeping Jamison High School responsive as part of a wider community and as such, positioning itself to allow our students to access the full range of pathways available for a successful transition to post-school options. Initiatives have included the development of the JHS Transition Program, a mock interview day, and targeted participation in the Humanise program. The JHS ATP Partnership Brokers have supported us in developing vital ongoing links with personnel and access to resources in the community, supporting the re-engagement of JHS students who have been at risk of becoming disengaged from learning. These students positively evaluated the programs remarking on the significant personal impact it had on raising their self-esteem, skill levels and aspirations. Some students have successfully transitioned to work or TAFE while others are successfully re-engaging with school, leading to enhanced academic outcomes.
We commend the National Partnerships initiative that has resourced the ATP at Jamison HS, in particular, the outstanding work performed by all members of the Partnership Brokers Team led by the most knowledgeable and well-networked leader, Mr. Ian Palmer. We also acknowledge the tireless efforts of their representative on our ATP, Mr. Brett Carter, as well as Mrs Cheryl Kitto, who have contributed encouragement, energy and support to the development and growth of our ATP. The ATP initiative has undoubtedly added dimensions to Jamison HS’s student learning and support programs that would not have existed without the involvement and resources contributed by the Partnership Brokers through National Partnerships.
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Regional Development Australia – Central West, New South Wales
Danica Bunch, A/G Executive Officer
CentaCare partnership brokers have been an active and consistent member of the Central West Education and Skills Community that RDA Central West is the secretariat for.
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Charlton College, Victoria
Kelvin Baird, Principal
A critical service linking education and industry to provide opportunities for young people.
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Boort District P-12 School, Victoria
Tom Bleicher, Assistant Principal, Gateways Co-ordinator and VET / VCAL Coordinator
Boort District P-12 School has been a long term partner with the North Central LLEN/ PB in relation to Structured Workplace and MIPS provision, careers and tertiary course information and through our relationship with the Gateways partnership. This partnership has linked employers and local industry to young people in the education system. The availability of NCLLEN/ PB personnel to facilitate cross sector committees and events has also been invaluable.
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Many Rivers, New South Wales
Ken Jeffers, Field Officer
Support the good work of partnership Brokers 1000%. Great program!
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University of Western Sydney, New South Wales
Nathan Rollinson, School of Medicine Rural Schools Community Engagement Officer Rural Clinical School Bathurst
This is a great initiative. It is imperative to the development of support networks for students in remote areas.
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A.J. & S.M. Petrie, Victoria
Andrew, Partner
Important link between employer, education and student (future employee)
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O’Connors, Victoria
Lisa Day, HR Manager
An extremely valuable and vital program which our organisation fully supports the continuation of.
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Central West Lachlan Landcare, New South Wales
Christie Elemam, Project Officer
The Partnership Brokers program empowers local community groups to work closely with other government, private and community organisations to ensure that our regional and rural communities continue to develop long-term solutions to local issues for the benefit of the young people who reside in these areas. It is through high level, community focused facilitation and engagement that the community benefits from stronger, more sustainable outcomes, that can operate long term in our local communities.
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Mission Australia SEE Program, New South Wales
Therese Buggy, SEE Program Teacher/Assessor
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Goodwin Village, Victoria
Anthony Hogan, EO
Our Community owned aged care organisation has/is partnering with the Donald High School to develop specific abilities and workability skills for students, while providing positive productivity outcomes for our business. These successful partnerships were developed by Partnership Brokers.
Our business participated in an ‘industry tour’ of the Donald and Birchip towns in 2013. The tour allowed me to see and hear the broad application and positive results of student – work partnerships, across all participating businesses and students.
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TaskForce Community Agency, Victoria
Raymond Blessing, CEO
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Apprenticeship & Traineeship Employment Partners (ATEP), Victoria
David Edgar, CEO
Since the inception of the Schools Business Community Partnership Brokers program our organisation has had a continuous involvement at multiple levels. ATEP as a not for profit group training organisation (GTO) believes ongoing relationship with this initiative is critical to achieving our standing objective of creating “real” vocational pathways for both secondary students and school leavers from middle income families to socially disadvantaged backgrounds (e.g. youth at risk and people with a disability).
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DEC, New South Wales
Karen Pickering, Senior Pathways Officer
Vital to pull key organisations to the table and initiate local partnerships with schools, RTO’s and Industry representatives.
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The Canoblas Rural Technology High School, New South Wales
Vince Lovecchio, Community Engagement Officer
The Orange based Partnership Brokers play an important role actively supporting the building, maintenance and sustainability of effective community partnerships and links. Their role in decreasing the amount of service duplication is invaluable. I look forward to working closely with this group well into the future.
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Peak Hill Central School, New South Wales
Paula Payne, Principal
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Gtec Training and Development Pty Ltd, Queensland
Richard Roe, COO
Youth Invest has been an integral part of our organisations growth and development, a service that has been a strong resource of information and business partnerships.
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Charters Towers Regional Council, Queensland
Anita Fry, Youth Services Officer
The Charters Towers Regional Council continue to support the benefits to the community for partnership building and partnership development that is provided by Youth Invest.
They have assisted in career days at the local schools with the school industry forums in the community, which will benefit the youth in preserving and developing training and work opportunities that provide skill development for traditional and alternative career paths for young people in the community.
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Highett Community Bank, Victoria
Les Heimann, Chair
LLENs (Partnership Brokers) have been vital to connecting our work, values and strategy to local schools. Little actions of many add up to create a reaction and this is what we have valued in the work the LLENs have done with us.
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AMES, Victoria
Jeanette Brown, Senior Education and Training Manager
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Cucina 105, New South Wales
Angelo Cucchiaro, Owner
I support the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
I think it’s great for the kids to see what happens in different businesses, you have my 100% support.
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Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation, Queensland
Ali Simpson, Manager
I have personally found this program and the quality individuals involved to be critical to the successful support of today’s youth.
With the current day to day challenges that confront our youth & parents we need to come back to and live by the saying “It takes a whole village to raise a child”. This program supports those values.
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SkillsPlus, Victoria
Sue Cattermole, CEO
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Ability Options Employment, New South Wales
Junior Tauia, Office Manager
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Berendale School, Victoria
Paula Barnett, Principal
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Cumberland Business Chamber, New South Wales
Narelle Stoker, General Manager
The Cumberland Business Chamber supports the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Rural Northwest Health, Victoria
Catherine Morley, CEO
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Sutherland Shire Council, New South Wales
Rebecca Wood, Manager Economic Development
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University of South Australia (Football United Program), South Australia
Edoardo Rosso, Research Fellow: Football United
The Brokers program does a fantastic job in connecting government, education and community partners and it is extremely beneficial to our operations. They have a great knowledge of local issues and opportunities and do truly help to bring people together for a wider community benefit.
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WORKCO Ltd, Victoria
John Ackland, CEO
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Federation University Australia, Victoria
Geoffrey Lord, Head of Campus, Wimmera
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Bowen High, Queensland
Terri Byrne, Principal
The Partnership Brokers Program “have been particularly integral to our school’s drive to inspire students to set career goals…….and has provide our school with the valuable link between school and business which has dramatically improved student outcomes, attitudes and success in the preparation of our students to transition into work.
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Regional Development Australia – Darling Downs & SW Qld, Queensland
Brian Hewitt, CEO
The Partnership Brokers program has been one of the most effective programs that RDA DDSW have been associated with – a wonderful record of measurable results and terrific value for government investment. I believe that it is vital for the youth of this region that this program continue into the future.
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Yarriambiack Shire Council, Victoria
Ray Campling, CEO
The continuation of the WSMLLEN program is absolutely critical to the Wimmera Southern Mallee region. This outstanding program is fully endorsed and supported by Yarriambiack Shire Council.
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Intelligent Recruitment Consulting, New South Wales
Sharon Austin, Managing Director
Southern Sydney BEN provide invaluable services to the business community by linking us with our next generation of employees. They play a key role in preparing our youth for the employment market so they can become valuable contributors to our society. Our youth deserve this support and commitment.
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KnowHands Education Consultancy, New South Wales
Phil Smith, Director
Through my work in sustainability education, I have worked with numerous partnership brokers in the wider Sydney area. Their connections, enthusiasm and network intelligence have provided support for students working with community organisations and businesses in innovative education initiatives.
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Marino Uniforms, South Australia
Tricia Borgas, Marketing Manager
We have been thrilled to be associated with the Partnership Program. It certainly has benefitted our business, with new ideas, etc.
We hope the project continues well into the future.
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Open Minds, Queensland
Sue Batten, Community Development Officer
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Murtoa College, Victoria
Joanna Day, Principal
The Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN provides fantastic support for our school and keeps us in touch with a huge variety of opportunities for our students. This support is not offered by any other organisation.
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Wimmera Development Association, Victoria
Jo Bourke, Executive Director
Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN successfully provides targeted support to regional young people to progress through school and training to work. They have built valuable linkages between industry and business, education and training providers and the broader community. Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN is also a valued regional contributor to strategic workforce and youth activities.
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Apprenticeships Queensland Inc., Queensland
Anita Dwyer, Marketing & Communications Officer
Apprenticeships Queensland has worked with Worklinks on a variety of projects and have found them a valuable link between school, all levels of government and business.
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Australian Foundation for Disability, New South Wales
Paul Thomas, Divisional Manager AFFORD
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Wimmera Regional Library Corporation, Victoria
Paula Clark, CEO
LLEN + Library = youth Literacy mentoring programs. A truly valuable partnership!
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Camden Council – Youth Services, New South Wales
Jodie Dench, Community Project Officer – Youth Services
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Regional Development Australia Sydney, New South Wales
Olga Yoldi, Project Manager
The program has been an excellent resource for young people. It’s continuation is crucial for young people to transition from school to work.
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Warracknabeal Secondary College, Victoria
Tony Fowler, Principal
The Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN has been instrumental in the establishment in the Warracknabeal Community Action Network, bringing together all key stakeholder groups with a united focus. Under this arrangement programs such as Satellite VCAL, Mates Mentoring, Reading Buddies, Live your Life, and more recently Let’s Read have arisen through a high level of collaboration and an unwavering commitment not only to provide reactive solutions to problems, but to establish programs that address problems at the very core. In our community we have reduced youth suicide significantly through the Live Your Life program. Mates Mentoring has connected vulnerable youth with significant adults who provide the support and guidance necessary for their social and emotional wellbeing and development. Most recently in response to declining levels of literacy and increasing levels of social disadvantage, the Let’s Read program provides a whole of community approach to literacy development. If we lose our LLEN we will lose the glue that holds this all together.
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SWSLHD, New South Wales
Helen Orcher, Aboriginal Employment Coordinator
MWLP has always supported and committed to Aboriginal Healthwise, without MWLP it would not be possible for us to deliver a successful healthwise Careers Expo for Aboriginal student across SWS. They are always available for support and advice for Aboriginal students and families. I wish you all the best.
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Business Horsham, Victoria
Wendy Mitchell, EO
Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN is one of the most outstanding organisations our organisation has had the pleasure to work with. They provide invaluable support to our young people in hand with a comprehensive range of programs that are incredibly beneficial. To lose this organisation would be a massive shame as they are one of the most proactive organisations among their counterparts that we have ever dealt with.
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Re-Engineering Australia Foundation Ltd., New South Wales
Deborah Maloney, Manager
The partnership broker organisations I have dealt with have always been highly professional with passionate employees committed to assisting young people to achieve their best career outcomes.
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MACROC, New South Wales
Christine Winning, Executive Officer
A very valuable program
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City Of Mount Gambier, South Australia
Barbara Cernovskis, Manager Community Services & Development
The Partnership Broker Program has been very successful with delivering a number of positive initiatives that have strengthened the partnership between Education and Industry.
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Horsham Rural City Council, Victoria
Peter Brown, CEO
The Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN is a well-functioning and well managed organisation that has made a significant contribution to the lives of disadvantaged and disengaged young people.
They have had good success in ensuring that young people participate in education or work through to the completion of year 12 or equivalent. The program works well with industry, employment organisations and schools to maximise the opportunities for young people.
As our economy goes through a period of readjustment, it is important that young people remain engaged in either education or work to provide them with the best opportunities as jobs become available into the future.
Horsham Rural City Council is very pleased to be able to support the Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN to continue this program.
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Blairmount Public School, New South Wales
Fiona Bagley, Teacher, (Environmental Education co-ordinator)
Blairmount Public School is situated in the Sydney’s far southwest with the majority of our clientele living in high density public housing. We have highly valued our association with Partnership Brokers who, through their intercession have been able to form partnerships with the school and Macarthur Diversity Services Initiative (MDSI), South Sydney West Area Health Service and the Royal Botanical Gardens to form the “Engaging in the Garden Partnership”. The partnership provided once a month garden workshops for the students and teachers of Blairmount Public School. Through these workshops the students and teachers were offered ‘hands-on’ learning experiences that provided them with skills and insights into sustainable, food gardening. Many of our students would not have otherwise had the opportunity to learn about or engage in growing their own healthy food if it were not for the opportunities provided by the work of Partnership Brokers. The workshops educate our youngest and arguably most socio-economically disadvantaged Australians with the knowledge and skills needed to equip them to lead healthy lives and to make the best possible environmentally sustainable choices.
We are extremely grateful for the work of Partnership Brokers in making the “Engaging in the Garden Partnership” possible and look forward to further working with them to enrich the lives of the students, teachers and parents of Blairmount Public School.
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Horsham Concrete Co Pty Ltd, Victoria
Pauline Schmidt, Compliance Manager/Director
I have had involvement with the WSM LLEN, almost since its inception (former employee of the University of Ballarat). I have seen tangible evidence of the benefits that this organisation provides our community. I am involved with Tim Shaw on the Horsham College School Council, where he is a major contributor to links with College and community.
Our business is a proud member of the business program with the LLEN. We have employed students through the VCAL program at our business, supported by the LLEN. These have been successful partnerships. It is vital that our community have access to such a proactive cohort of people.
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Ipswich and West Moreton Health Alliance, Queensland
Aletha Ward, Chairperson
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Emmaus College – Jimboomba, Queensland
Michelle Whyte, VET Pathways Officer
The Partnership Brokers have been integral in assisting our school build community relations. Our students have benefited by gaining school based traineeships as well as fulltime jobs post Year 12.
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Driscoll, McIllree and Dickinson, Victoria
Sally Ison
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Port Lincoln High School Community Learning Centre, South Australia
Deb Marks, FLO Co-ordinator
Working with partnership brokers has enabled us to create strong and lasting partnerships in areas that previously had been unexplored. Students have benefitted in a wide range of ways but most particularly in finding the transition between schooling and work less confronting through ongoing and purposeful contact. Potential employers have also had opportunity to learn more about young people who they may have been overlooked within a conventional setting.
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Watts Price Accountants, Victoria
Brian Watts, Partner
LLENS work in the Wimmera is an outstanding illustration of what can be done to assist those ‘on the margin’ and is the result of people with a passion to make a difference and are achieving not just talking!
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Breseight Group, New South Wales
Kevin Cullen, Managing Director
This program needs to continue to enable the change required for Schools and business & community to connect.
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MTC Australia, New South Wales
Jacqueline Druart, Head Trainer / Site Manager, Liverpool
The endeavour to enrich lives, strengthen communities and make a difference is so worthwhile. I support the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Able Australia, Queensland
Petrea Sexton, Youth Team Leader
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Groves Christian College, Queensland
Nicholas Robertson, VET Facilitator / Teacher
Tireless workers with a bank of knowledge of student, employer and school needs. Irreplaceable.
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Longerenong College, Victoria
John Goldsmith, General Manager
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Horsham College, Victoria
Graeme Holmes, Principal
I fully endorse the sentiments expressed in the letter. The work that the local LLEN does in the Wimmera area is exceptional and is highly supportive of young people and schools. I fully endorse their work and trust that Partnership Broker Funding can be provided to enable them to continue their exceptional work.
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Wimmera Health Care Group, Victoria
Mr Chris Scott, Chief Executive
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Open Family (White Lion), New South Wales
Wayne Briggs, Outreach Worker
I support the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Kaniva College, Victoria
Ashley Munn, Acting Principal
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Interwork Ltd, South Australia
Nadine Davies, Team Leader
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Volunteering Western Victoria, Victoria
Julie Pettett, CEO
Our organisations have a close working relationship, the LLEN’s networks and relationships within the community have been invaluable to us and our programs.
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Horsham Amcal Pharmacy, Victoria
Carlie Streeter, Owner/Partner
Provides an important offering in a country community to maximise job opportunities for our young population and keep them in a rural community.
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Rotary Club of Wetherill Park, New South Wales
Catherine Kilpatrick, President
I support the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Real Teens Foundation, Queensland
Florence Kelly, Foundation Manager & National Program Coordinator
This group is integral in bringing community groups, business and schools together in the same environment to align and support the youth of the area. There is no other vehicle that offers this unique combination. They save our organisation time and effort by bringing all the major partners together in the same place at the same time. This is the most effective and efficient use of my time and creates the opportunity for network across many sectors at once and hear what is going on in the Youth Sector in combination with the world of business.
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Mercy Community Services – Family Services Goodna, Queensland
Martin Greller, Senior Manager
The Community Partnership Brokers program has been instrumental in establishing and promoting the Child, Youth and Families Alliance Ipswich & West Moreton.
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HunterNet Group Training Company Pty Ltd., New South Wales
Murray Christie, Manager
As an employer of apprentices and trainees, HunterNet has benefitted greatly from the education in transition and employability skills that the Partnership Brokers program has provided. We truly hope this program continues well into the future.
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Noweyung Ltd, Victoria
Mr Ernie Metcalf, CEO
What we have seen with our local LLEN is the ability to capitalize on local knowledge and a focus that draws on place based commitment and community involvement. For our organization the partnering has led to great education opportunities for our young people with disabilities in a learning environment which is better suited to their needs than main stream educational opportunities.
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Cardiff High School, New South Wales
Stephen Trayhurn, Principal
Highly successful and an essential service provided to the youth of NSW.
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Bundamba State Secondary College, Queensland
Andrew Peach, Principal
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Central Gippsland Health Service, Victoria
Frank Evans, CEO
CGHS has an important role to play as an active partner in the learning and development of young people in the Wellington Shire and beyond. The Program supports us to work with schools, other businesses and the broader community to develop more flexible and enabling systems that support young people to access education and employment pathways.
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Nathalia Secondary College, Victoria
John Sciacca, Principal
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Byetc, Queensland
Mike Hobbs, Principal
The partnership program has linked this school which is in the Brisbane Youth Detention centre with a large number of organisations and businesses forming positive and sustainable partnerships. The partnerships have led more positive outcomes for young people in detention. Without the Partnership Brokers these partnerships would not exist.
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Sacred Heart College Yarrawonga, Victoria
Mark Flanagan, Senior Teacher
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West Wallsend High School, New South Wales
Ann Campbell, Principal
We have worked with Career Links over a number of years. Their support with work experience for Vocational Subjects has been vital to the success of our students and has resulted in employment for a number of students. Also their contribution to programs running at the school and has been significant and supported our careers program. Working closely with Career Links with the Lakeside Transition Group has been excellent, providing links between school and the sharing of resources.
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ME Program, New South Wales
Ashley Cox, ME Program Manager
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Dept. Human Services, Victoria
Carmel Shellie, Government Action Leader
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Photography & Communication Services, Victoria
Bruce Cumming, Director
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Dept. of Employment, Victoria
Julie Tyndall, Local Employment Coordinator
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Hospitality Training Network, New South Wales
Christina Brown
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Toronto High School, New South Wales
Trevor Connell, Careers Advisor
Reference to YAKA Day
Toronto High School has been involved in Career Expos and Try-A-Trade days for many years. These information days are extremely important in introducing students to career options that are available on completion of school. As a school we have been attending two of these each year, however, there is always limited numbers that can attend. For this reason we discussed with Career Links the thought of running an event exclusively for our Indigenous students.
This event was run at Toronto HS for the first few years and was so successful that we have had to source another venue. Originally the event catered for students of THS only but due to its success it was expanded to include our feeder primary schools and then other local high schools and their feeder primary schools. Parents/Carers and other family members are also invited along to support and encourage the students. There is a large and varied range of career options on show from courses at TAFE and University’s to hands on exhibitions that enable the students to try different skills.
YAKA Day has continued to grow and provide a more professional program for our students. Moving from THS to a new, more suitable site has been the most positive change since the program was started. One of the advantages in moving offsite was not having students from THS who were not invited to the event dropping in during the day and distracting the students from their tasks. The new site also ensures THS students not attending YAKA Day are not distracted from their studies.
The quality of the presenters has improved over the years as they realise the value of the day, this ensures our students’ interest continues and the numbers of students that attend and benefit from the event will increase. Introducing students from primary schools has had the effect of planting a seed for continued interest in career development. When interviewing students about subject selection for years 11 and 12 and career options for leaving school, I have had many students refer back to what they saw, tried or learnt about during YAKA Day. The feedback from Teachers from other schools and Parents/Carers is extremely positive. This has encouraged the growth and excellent attendance of the event.
Another area that I don’t believe has been investigated as yet is the friendships and improvement in socialisation from these days. Having students with common interests and/or cultural backgrounds involved in this event has aided in developing bonds which have been evidenced in attendance at common events such as sporting and other interschool activities. Due to the smaller numbers at the event as opposed to the Career Expo which has 2000 students working their way through the event over a six hour period, YAKA Day is more personal and, therefore, students feel more comfortable. As this program has run for several years, students have developed associations with students from other schools as well as some of our presenters, ensuring, when these students do leave school and contact our presenters in the next stage of their lives – searching for a career, they feel comfortable in already having developed a relationship.
As a Professional Career Development Practitioner, I have witnessed the advantages this program has made to the students of THS and am confident that the continuation of this program is extremely beneficial to our students, our future students from our feeder schools, and to students from our surrounding schools.
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Strathbogie Shire, Victoria
Cr Colleen Furlanetto, Deputy Mayor
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All Trades Queensland, Queensland
Cara Graham, Industry Consultant
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Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Qld Inc, Queensland
Surendra Prasad, President
My Association fully support continuation of the Australian Government’s School and Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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J.MAR Constructions, Victoria
Andrea Marshall, Director
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Lake Macquarie High, New South Wales
Karen Spur, Career Advisor
Career Links is a multidiscipline organisation that provides employment and transition support for students through the development of innovative partnerships:
- Constructive partnerships through mentoring has helped students who have found it hard to transition from school to work
- Access to employers who provide a range of quality SBAT
- Innovative employment program for indigenous students through events such as Yakka Day
A must have for schools as they are an energetic and informative team.
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The Smith Family, Victoria
Janet Green, Program Coordinator Learning for Life
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D.A.L.E. Christian School. Waratah, New South Wales
Zoltan Vincze, Generalist Teacher & Youth Support Worker
The benefits with combining Career Links & DALE CS have been immeasurable with opening much needed opportunities for the kids in our youth programs. It has created excellent community rapport and valuable experience for our students. Thank-you.
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Hunter Volunteer Centre, New South Wales
Tony Ross, General Manager
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Park Ridge SHS, Queensland
Euginia Shvetsoff, HOD Senior Schooling
Worklinks have been an excellent partner with our school creating great industry links through a number of viable initiatives.
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M-YES Inc., Queensland
Tamba Thomas
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Berry St., Victoria
Trish Quibell, Deputy Director
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G.V Community Fund, Victoria
Lisa McKenzie, EO
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The University of Newcastle, New South Wales
Robyn Gentemann, ELICOS Student Activities and Event Coordinator
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Anglican Care, New South Wales
Colin Osborne, CEO
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Moira Shire, Victoria
Maryanne Ryan, Youth Development Officer
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Lake Macquarie City Council, New South Wales
Maree Edwards, Aboriginal Community Development Officer
The City of Lake Macquarie has the second highest Aboriginal population in the state at 3% with almost 6,000 people that have identified themselves in the 2011 census.
Since Careerlinks hosted the annual YAKA Day at Toronto High School in 2012, the bond between their Cardiff team and Lake Macquarie City Council has grown and developed into a rewarding relationship for both organisations. It became apparent to me from that first event that the Careerlink employees held a high regard for the Aboriginal people within our community and the focus was high on developing the culture and future of Aboriginal youth.
Careerlinks have also formed and facilitated successful programs and great relationships with some of Lake Macquaries Local Aboriginal Land Councils, which is a credit to them all.
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Fairley Foundation, Victoria
Professor Jan Carter AM, Senior Advisor
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WILD FX Group Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Phillip Rash, Owner
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Parks Community Network Inc., New South Wales
Eva Atkins, Links to Learning Coordinator
The direction provided by SWC has assisted in developing partnerships for sustainability of programs which have provide opportunities for young people to develop and achieve their full potential.
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Break Thru People Solutions, New South Wales
Helena Xabregas, Business Manager
Break Thru People Solutions Parramatta and Hornsby support the works of Southwest Connect in the delivery of their programs to facilitate stakeholder engagement. Together with other community groups BTPS have successfully worked in partnership with schools in the area in particular Holroyd High School. The assistances provided to the school are to assist in building sustainable long term partnerships with community organisations with the goal to support parents and students who have the knowledge to make successful transition to other pathways or retain in year 12.
This is achieved through events such as the Parental and Students Forum where parents and students get together in a supportive environment. This is to educate parents on the variety of services available to them and their children by providing information, and giving them an opportunity to share their views, ideas and opinions about their children’s futures. BTPS plays a key part these events to enlighten parents and receive feedback on the wide variety of services that BTPS offers.
I support the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Goulburn Ovens TAFE, Victoria
Balvinder Kaur, Multicultural Unit Manager
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Catholic Education Offices, Sandhurst, Victoria
Julie Hodgkins, Senior Project Officer
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Park Beach Plaza and Park Beach Home Base, New South Wales
Lorenz Beckett, Centre Manager
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Headspace Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
Gary Maher, Community Engagement and Development Officer
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La Trobe University, Victoria
Dr Apollo Nsubuga-Kyobe AFAIM, MAHRI, FAFBE, JP., Chair DHS Victoria Multicultural Advisory Committee, Lecturer in Business Management, School of Business, Dept. of Management – Bundoora | La Trobe University
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Boston Consulting, Victoria
Peter Acton, Retired managing Director
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High Hopes Educational Services, Victoria
Angie Wilcock, Director
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NSW Police, New South Wales
Bernadette Snow, Senior Constable
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Dept Education and Communities, New South Wales
Michael Gibbs, Aboriginal Student Liaison Officer
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Wanganui Park Secondary College, Victoria
Ken Murray, Principal
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Harbour Youth Service, New South Wales
Carole Villiers, Senior Youth Worker
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City of Greater Shepparton, Victoria
Sally Rose, Manager Children’s & Youth Services
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Coffs Harbour Council, New South Wales
Louise Morris, Community Development Officer
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Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE, Victoria
John Lee, Commercial Manager – VETiS – Technical Education Centres – Shepparton & Wangaratta
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Coffs Harbour High School, New South Wales
Patti Kearns, Principal
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Mooroopna Primary School, Victoria
Steve Rogers, Principal, Chair Shepparton Central Network, Hume Region
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Agriculture and NCDEA Farming Division, Victoria
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Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE, Victoria
Leigh Kildey, Commercial Manager Agriculture Education
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Toormina High School, New South Wales
E Donnan, Principal
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Dept Education and Communities, New South Wales
Joanna Reid, Home School Liaison Officer
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La Trobe University, Victoria
Dr Darius von Guttner, Senior Lecturer
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Peninsula Personnel Recruitment Services, New South Wales
Lisa Bousfield, Director
I fully support the need for additional education, training and facilities provided with regards to better preparing students for life after school. There is a huge gap in this area that needs to be addressed.
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Ormeggio Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Anna Pavoni, Partner/HR
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Gowrie St Primary School, Victoria
Travis Eddy, Principal
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Northern Sydney Institute of TAFE, Northern Beaches Campus, New South Wales
Susan Coleman, Head Teacher, Business Services
NBBEN played key role in establishing internships with local business for full-time business students at this campus in 2013.
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Northern Beaches Community Connect, New South Wales
John Gillham, Executive Officer
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Shepparton High School, Victoria
Phil Squires, Principal
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WCCI, New South Wales
Wendy Finianos, President
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McGuire College, Victoria
Bill Porter, Deputy Principal
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Rumbalara Dental Clinic, Victoria
Practice Manager
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Notre Dame College, Victoria
John Cortese, Principal
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Back Of House, New South Wales
Debra Fraser, CEO
Students and businesses benefit greatly from this program. Students we have hosted have learnt what it takes to be successfully employed. Our business gained new ideas and fresh prospective from the students
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Queen St Customs, New South Wales
Benjamin Tubridy, Manager
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Mooroopna Secondary College, Victoria
Gary Fletcher, Pricipal
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Jeff Walshe Entertainment P/L, New South Wales
Jeff Walshe, Owner / Director
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Rural Skills Australia, Victoria
Gordon Griffin, EO
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University of Melbourne, Dookie College
Christina Gait, Promotion and Marketing
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Swissotel Sydney, New South Wales
Carlos Hurtado, Training Manager
I strongly support the the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers programs. The students of today need the training for our hospitality Sector more than ever, without this funding we could not see, train and employ potential young candidates as we do now. It is vital part of the Hospitality and Tourism Industry
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BlueFit Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Zoe Lynam, Facility Manager
We would like to show our complete support for the continuation of the Partnership Broker program. This program has allowed us to engage with school students and has given us the opportunity to showcase the benefits of physical activity combined with academic studies. Career Connections has assisted in recruiting school based trainees who will work with us and complete a recognized certificate in Sport and Recreation while students continue with their studies at high school. This program gives young people exposure to a fast-paced industry and provides essential skills that will be with them for life.
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Charles Sturt University, Victoria
Anne Geddis, Partnership Engagement
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Snow Brand Australia, Victoria
Wayne Hippisley, Production Manager
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Sasy n Savy Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Samea Maakrun, CEO
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Masters, New South Wales
Michael Baillie, Manager
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The Haven Community Limited, New South Wales
Shane McMullen, General Manager
Our aged care facility and residents have benefited greatly from the (Partnership Broker) program. We have seen the development opportunity it provides a young person in preparing themselves for the future and it would be a great shame for the program to be discontinued.
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Flying Pig Design, Victoria
Nerida Hippisley, Director
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Steve Di Petta & Associates, Victoria
Steve Di Petta, Director
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Findon High School, South Australia
Ross Walter, VET/SACE Coordinator
Western Futures has provided valuable assistance to our students, helping them transition successfully to the work force, and to our staff, for many years.
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Bowden Brompton Community School, South Australia
John Leondaris, Principal
BBCS has immensely benefited through the work of our Partnership Broker “Western Futures” and we hope that these benefits may continue through the ongoing support of the government.
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Northern Midlands Council, Tasmania
Lorraine Green, Manager Economic and Community Development
TL3 lives up to its slogan ‘Making it Happen’ 1000% !!
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Mt Carmel College, South Australia
Gavin McGlaughlin, Principal
Strongly support the excellent work being done
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Thebarton Senior College, South Australia
Kim Hebenstreit, Principal
Western Futures has provided valuable and comprehensive support to the students of Thebarton Senior College. It has been outstanding in securing opportunities for our most “at risk’ students to access work and training opportunities. Furthermore, Western Futures staff have been tireless in their efforts to ensure that these young people are well prepared for job interviews and have a suite of skills to assist them with securing work and financial independence.
I am particularly grateful for the expertise they have provided to augment and improve the skills of our own teaching staff.
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Youth Connections, Western Australia
Jason Searle, Youth Worker
In my role as a Youth Worker I have found my involvement with Partnership Brokers to be totally indispensable. Almost all of the youth programs I run in Esperance would not have happened if not for the diligence of Partnership Brokers. In all my dealings I have been met with extreme professionalism, positivity and creativeness. I thank them every day just for existing.
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BIZCOM (NT) Pty Ltd, Northern Territory
Paul Lewis, General Manager
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Mandurah Coastal Times, Western Australia
Jill Burgess, Editor
In a high area of unemployment, anything we can do to help young people gets jobs is a bonus.
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Wanslea, Western Australia
Sandi Burton, Manager, Community Programs
Working with and through our regional Partnership Broker to study the research and raise the importance of children’s early years has resulted in an excellent collaboration of multiple agencies. Without our regional PB taking the lead it is doubtful that the Great Southern Early Years Network would be engaged in cutting edge research and working toward better outcomes for children.
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Tasmanian Building Group Apprenticeship Scheme, Tasmania
Mark Fishwick, Field Officer
The program has provided access to motivated and enthusiastic potential job seekers, who may be candidates for apprenticeships going forward. In other cases, we hope that we have been able to dispel some of the ‘myths’ about apprenticeships and provide real life examples of how young people have used apprenticeships as a vehicle to attaining their goals, dreams and aspirations.
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Alice Springs Town Council, Northern Territory
Tony Jennison, Manager HR
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Griffith City Council, New South Wales
Brett Stonestreet, General Manager
The positive outcomes for the young people of Griffith is a direct result of the strong initiatives and programs established by the Partnership Brokers Network. Enabling continuation of this program will result in an efficient productive future workforce.
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Foodbank NSW, New South Wales
Lou Revelant, Produce Manager
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Murray-Riverina NSW Business Chamber, New South Wales
Ben Foley, Regional Manager
We recognise that Partnership Brokers fill an important gap linking students with industry.
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Thebarton Senior College, South Australia
Michelle Hepworth, Teacher, SET Program-Transition to Work
At Thebarton Senior College, we offer the SET Program, a transition to work program for newly arrived young adults. Our Partnership Broker, Western Futures, has facilitated us linking with an RTO providing Hospitality training, giving our students the qualifications they need to enter the workforce. They have connected our school to local businesses, enabling our students to undertake valuable work experience in the retail, construction and service industries. The links between our school and the community, facilitated by Western Futures, has led to ongoing partnerships and importantly has resulted in some of our students securing paid employment, making a crucial difference in the lives of the young people and their families.
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Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber of Commerce & Industry INC., Western Australia
Hugh Gallagher, CEO
The KBCCI has had a very positive relationship with the School Business Partnership Program and all associated. The Program within the Goldfields Esperance region, has produced numerous tangible dividends for employers, parents, students and our education system, as a whole. Hopefully the program will be continued as there is nothing else that it competes with. It really has made a noticeable difference within the regional community.
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Education Department, Western Australia
Helen Ducey, Engagement and Transition Manager
We have been able to work collaboratively with our Partnership Broker to establish links with commerce and industry that have served to enrich the curriculum delivered to student in schools in our district. These links need to be maintained and it is the work of the Partnership Broker that ensures this continuous connection. Without this service the connections will weaken over time and be lost as a resource to the youth of the region.
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Kaiela Institute, Victoria
Chris Giblin, Employment Partnership Broker
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Nazareth Catholic College, South Australia
Mr Phil Lewis, Campus Principal
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Wesley Mission The Hills Family Centre, New South Wales
Rene Acker-Sessions, Manager Wesley Family Centre
I would like to thank you for the support our partnership with you and your team at 2Realise have provided us with in developing, launching and establishing our StreetSmart Youth Outreach initiative in the Hills Shire.
The partnership with you has given our project an enourmous advantage in linking us with resources, funds, local and co-located services, corporations and most importantly with the young people and their families who reside in the Norwest of Sydney.
Today a report was released by the Director of the Brotherhood of St Lawrence describing the emotional and financial stresses that families including their young people aged between 15 and 20 year olds are facing as a result of the current ecconomy and underemployment opportunities. He sited that NSW has the highest rate of young people suffering as a result of this factory and the highest population group in NSW; 16.8% residing in the Western Sydney region from Parramatta through to the Norwest; including the Hills shire. Through your partnership, we will be better positioned to address this aspect that is effecting young peoples wellbeing and be able to link them into services that can advise and support them with developing their career pathways, mentoting within the workplace, and/or basic workplace knowledge such as Work Health and Saftey and how to take directions from a supervisor or manager.
With resources being cut and limitted in support services which support local families, your services has been invaluable and a cost effective means for us to prioritise our resources for the direct support with families. You have made a wonderful dent in local services in the Hills Shire and I see the benefits of how we are working with local services to combat the increase of community support needs and limitted resources to meet the needs. Our partnership with you has better postioned us and other local services to link in with each other, and as a result, increased the capacity of services to better support the community including increasing the opportunites for young people who are being impacted by undermeployment, family stress, social isolation, lack of local support services for them and their parents to manage the complexities that are faced through the adolescent years.
I look forward to continuing our partnership.
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Cutting Edge Uniting Care, Victoria
Ronni Druitt, CEO
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Furphys & Sons Pty Ltd, Victoria
Adam Furphy, Managing Director
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Southern Aboriginal Corporation, Western Australia
Paul Beattie, Employment Programs Manager
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Henley High School, South Australia
Tania Duff-Tytler VET Coordinator / Assistant Principal Literacy & Numeracy
School Business Community Partnership Brokers are an integral part of the schools’ teaching and learning program and Vocational Programs and pathways. The business and community partnerships that have been brokered by Western futures have offered necessary industry feedback and participation in our Vocational programs as well as industry tours, work experience, work shadowing, structured workplace learning and offerings of Australian School Based Apprenticeships.
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Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, New South Wales
Andrew Wheatley, Communications & Public Affairs Manager
It was a great experience to be a part of 2realise program. Our staff really enjoyed the opportunity to work with the students from one of our local schools and give them some ideas for future career options. It is fantastic to be able to be involved in programs such as this that allow companies to play a part in their local communities.
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Academy of Sport & Health Education, Victoria
Phil Guthrie, Manager
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Congolese Association, Victoria
Rashidi Sumaili, Chair
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Great Southern Institute of Technology, Western Australia
Lidia Rozlapa, Managing Director
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Parks Victoria, Victoria
Bruce Werner, Manager
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Temple Christian College, South Australia
Josie Kaunesis, Support Education Coordinator
Western Futures have made a very valuable contribution to my ‘Literacy for Work & Community Life’ subject during the last 3 years. They have come into the school on a number of occasions and shared their valuable knowledge with my students on how to write resumes, apply for jobs, sit interviews and the culmination of each year has been the conduction of ‘mock interviews’ where my students have had the opportunity to dress up and undergo a formal interview with Western Future staff, receiving specific feedback at the end of each interview. In addition to the valuable knowledge and life skills imparted to my students, ‘Western Futures’ form important links between schools, students and businesses in the Western suburbs – helping bridge the gap between school and the world of work. I have no hesitation in commending the services they provide and know that the teaching programs I offer at my school would be the poorer without their input.
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Adelaide Secondary School of English, South Australia
Elizabeth Nicholas Sexton, Coordinator Senior Curriculum
Western Futures has provided the school with ongoing support for our VET partnerships program. It has provided support that has meant we have been able to run a VET program for our newly arrived refugee and migrant cohort so they can begin their VET Pathway at our school and then continue in the mainstream sector. As our students come from a range of cultural backgrounds where VET has not been an option in their previous education the Western Futures partnership means students are gaining first hand knowledge and experience of this valuable option to their education in Australia.
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Century Venues The Concourse, New South Wales
Romy Hodgson, Business Event Manager
Century Venues The Concourse is delighted to be working with 2Realise with their on-going programs. This important project provides inspiration and encouragement and a true sense of purpose for students in the district and beyond.
Our relationship is strengthened by the dedication and efficiency of the staff who show passion and commitment. It is a pleasure to be involved.
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Great Southern Aboriginal Health Service Western Australia Country Health Service (WACHS), Western Australia
Dr. Alistair Pinto, Manager
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Shire of Plantagenet, Western Australia
Kathryn Dye, Chief Executive Officer
The Shire of Plantagenet is a strong supporter of programs that help prepare young people for the workplace.
The Shire has hosted a number of trainees and supports work based placements and work experience opportunities.
We believe that positive experiences in the work place helps young people transition smoothly from education into jobs and help them retain their jobs.
The role of Partnership Brokers to assist businesses and young people have a positive experience is very important.
Without Broker involvement, many small businesses do not have the time or resources to engage with young people. This often results in young people not enjoying their work based time and businesses were being unsatisfied with their interaction. Over time, these poor experiences will lead to fewer opportunities for young people to experience a work place prior to leaving school.
The value of Partnership Brokers to helping young people gain employment and to become a valuable resource to business is important to our community.
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Portside Christian College, South Australia
Dr Adam Davis, Deputy Principal
A valuable service for advice and information to our school in networking students with local businesses providing work experience, training, apprenticeship and potential employment opportunities.
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Woolworths Limited, New South Wales
Jo Dean, Corporate Graduate Coordinator
I am happy to confirm that at Woolworths we have partnered with 2realise in 2013 to assist in educating young people and preparing them for the transition from school to work. We believe that this is a worthwhile endeavour.
We are keen to continue our relationship with 2realise in 2014. We are committed to supporting their program and providing opportunities for young people to become work ready.
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Greater Melton Chamber of Commerce, Victoria
Tom Dickson, President
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Practical Outcomes, Victoria
Karen Watts, Executive Officer
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Culinary Skills Australia, Victoria
Ollie Gladwell, Manager Client Relations
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Apprenticeships Group Australia, Victoria
Mark Knox, Managing Director
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MacGregor Logistics, Victoria
Christina MacGregor, Managing Director
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Careers FastTrack, Victoria
Nigel Phillips, Chief Executive Officer
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Willcall Investments Pty Ltd, Victoria
Martin Featherstone, Managing Director
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Same Day Printing, Victoria
Tom Dickson, Managing Director
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Djerriwarrh Community & Education Services, Victoria
Patricia Heffernan, Chief Executive Officer
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MEGT, Victoria
Rachael Fisher, Business Relationships Consultant
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National Disability Coordination Officer Program – Region 23, South Australia
Jen Cousins, NDCO
The NDCO program in Region 23 collaborates extensively with each of the Partnership Brokers within the region to have a significant impact on improving the planning and implementation of transition planning for young people with disability to move from school to training, education and work. These partnerships are continuing to develop and cross regional collaboration is evident, ensuring better practice in supporting young people with disability to achieve.
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Hunter Land Pty Ltd, GWH Group and various other Hunter companies., New South Wales
Hilton Grugeon AM, Director
Our local Partnership Broker has ensured that many of our businesses have been able to effectively link with the youth of the Hunter, to improve their school to work skills. We are keen partners in the Work Inspiration initiative. The initiative will have our ongoing support.
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AiGTS, South Australia
Pat Bosco, Business Development Coordinator SA/WA & Employment Training Consultant
The VET industry cannot afford to lose this program” “and the people in it.
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WesTrac, New South Wales
Graham Durrant, General Manager Product Support
We at WesTrac are in support of the existing partnership broker agreement we have with Youth Express. “We have found this to be a valuable partnership and program to engage employees for our business units.
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The Apprenticeship Factory, Victoria
Lindsay Jennings, Project Manager
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Maxima, South Australia
David Cockram, CEO
Maxima has enjoyed a long and positive association with Western Futures through our collaborative support of young people in their pursuit of meaningful and fulfilling careers.
Examples of the collaborative nature of our relationship with Western Futures has involved placing trainees with Qantas and Westpac where we currently have a significant number of Indigenous apprentices and trainees across vocations including business, catering, automotive technology and customer service; spanning state jurisdictions including; SA, Northern Territory, ACT, NSW, QLD and WA.
We also cooperate in providing VET support to local schools by engaging school students through career counselling advice regarding apprenticeships and traineeships with:
- Lefevre High
- Woodville High
- Thebarton Senior College
- Henley High
- Warriapendi
- Seaton High
- Immanuel College
- West Minster College
- Rostrevor College
- Mt Carmel College
- Bowdon / Brompton High
I believe that Western Futures under the School Business Community Partnership Broker arrangement, play a significant role in ensuring secondary school students are appropriately informed of and connected with industry career opportunities.
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Printing Industries Association of Australia, South Australia
Graham Thomas, Future Print Project Advisor SA / NT / TAS
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Joblink Midwest, Western Australia
Ty Jones, Career Development Officer
We work closely with our local Partnership Broker to deliver workforce development and career information to a number of youth in a variety of circumstances and connect with a number of local businesses within our community. Through their ongoing support we are able to deliver our services to those students who need it most and they benefit greatly from the support they are given.
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Headspace Ballarat, Victoria
Ben Gillet, Manager
Having the HLLEN as a partner in headspace has been absolutely fantastic. It brings us links and contacts that would have taken years to build up and support for our clients who are ready to go into education or employment.
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Youth Connections BGT, Victoria
Amira Willigham, Manager
Dealing with such complex young people can be very difficult but the MAST model brokered in Hepburn Shire by the LLEN has allowed us to work openly together and support each other to find the best pathways for our young people.
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IMG Furniture, Victoria
Sam Joukajian, Director
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Deck It Out, Victoria
Jaden Meek, Director
If our future workforce is to be work ready and well skilled we need greater connections between industry and education – the value and strength of the Partnership broker Program is evident through the successful connections they’ve forged across industry and training during the last 4 years.
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UCAN Café, Victoria
Tom Bevan, Manager
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Coal And Allied, New South Wales
Cate Sims, Senior Advisor Aboriginal Relations NSW
Coal & Allied feel very strongly that Partnership Brokers, play a vital role in young people making a successful transition from school and more broadly, to the task of building and retaining appropriate skills in our communities. These skills are and will remain vital to the future of our industry.
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Hunter Valley Training Company, New South Wales
Kay Sharp, Executive Director
I have been involved with Youth Express over many years and know at first hand the outstanding work which is undertaken by this organisation and others who are acting as Partnership Brokers facilitating the development of meaningful relationships between education and business sectors. This provides quality outcomes for the benefit of students, business and the community generally.
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Ararat Rural City Council, Victoria
Brady Curran, Manager People and Culture
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Lush fresh handmade cosmetics, South Australia
Nelya Valamanesh, Manager
Working with western futures to help bring a new experience to many great students was a real highlight of my career so far.
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Macquarie Generation, New South Wales
Nichola Rawson, Human Resources
Macquarie Generation supports Youth Express in providing young local Australian Citizens in expanding their understanding of local industries and providing them the opportunity to gain worthwhile on the job experience to aid in their future career endeavours.
The partnership between Youth Express and Macquarie Generation has been positive with the program assisting in our recruit of Apprentices in the organisation.
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Midwest Training Group, Western Australia
Dave Clare, General Manager
The relationship between schools and businesses is critical to Australia’s productive future. It gives businesses an opportunity to give back to the schools and for the children to have a deeper understanding of career choices and requirements to be successful in businesses.
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Geraldton Port Authority, Western Australia
David Macfarlane, Projects Engineer
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Marian College Ararat, Victoria
John Coghlan, Head of Applied Learning (Leadership Team Member)
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Coles Kurralta Park, South Australia
Gino Ienco, Manager
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Stockland, New South Wales
Chris Travers, Centre Manager
Our local Partnership Broker has ensured that Stockland has been able to effectively link with young people in the Hunter, to improve their school to work skills. Partnership activity has enabled valuable core retail skills acquisition in a real industry setting and that the importance of learning and youth skill development is showcased in the community
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Geraldton Universities Centre, Western Australia
Natalie Nelmes, Special Projects
Partnerships are what regional communities do so well so it’s vital that this program continues.
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Victoria Police, Victoria
Dean Lloyd, Youth engagement
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Denton Engineering & Hydraulics, New South Wales
Michelle Denton, Administration Manger
Yes, I, Michelle Denton – Administration Manger of Denton Engineering & Hydraulics and Denton Urethanes, support the letter to the Prime Minister of Australia.
Our businesses have supported Youth Express over the last few years and have found it to be a great mediator between young people needing job experience and placement and ourselves.
We would much rather be approached by Youth Express on behalf of education facilities than be approached by these organisations directly.
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Pegasus Management Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Pru Killick, HR Manager
I am a supporter of the great work Youth Express have done in the Hunter. Youth Express has been able to assist student’s connection with employers, and in encouraging employers to be invested in the process, offering a ‘real’ glimpse into the working world, through work experience.
I support the Youth Express Service in the Hunter. It will be a significant loss to the community, most importantly our youth, if the program was to no longer operate.
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Glastonbury Farm, New South Wales
Yvonne Clerke, Owner/Manager
Supports the letter
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Peer Veet, South Australia
Toni Hartley, Employment Services Manager
Our involvement with the Ocean View P-12 College Virtual Enterprise was a valuable experience. Melanie Hanson, our Apprenticeship Coordinator who was a Business Mentor for the group found the program to be a rewarding experience. She found the collaboration to be hands on and encouraging. Providing advice and mentoring the students to learn more about the business environment and successfully complete the Cert II In Business. The links between business and schools is vital and of real benefit overall and would be encouraged by the continuation of this program.
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Stawellbiz, Victoria
Shelly Chalmers, Secretary
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Grampians Pyrenees Primary Care Partnership, Victoria
Marianne Hendron, EO
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Cupz and Crepes, New South Wales
Gary & Racquel Peapell, Owners
Support Youth Express
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Workco Limited, Victoria
Hamish Mines, Department manager, Group Training apprenticeship, Labour Hire, Personnel, Youth Connections
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Maitland Neighbourhood Centre, New South Wales
Naomi Rees, Manager Maitland Neighbourhood Centre
I have personally been involved in many projects where Youth Express have achieved great things. The role of Partnership Brokers, bringing together services and businesses to support the young people of this city as they begin their transition into the workforce cannot be under, estimated.
I ask that you continue to provide funds for the valuable asset to the Maitland Community.
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AF Gason, Victoria
Scott Turner, HR Manager
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Federation University Australia, Victoria
Geoffrey Lord, Head of Campus, Wimmera
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NSW Utilities & Elextrotechnology, New South Wales
Norm Cahill, Executive Officer
Youth Express has worked closely with this ITAB and our industry partners in the Lower Hunter, supporting the Electrotechnology Industry. They have been instrumental in developing school students into work ready employable apprentices in a variety of qualifications in our industry. We greatly value their work and dedication to seamlessly transferring students into employees.
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Kurri Business Chamber, New South Wales
Rod Doherty, President
The Kurri Kurri District Business Chamber, Board of Management supports the continuation of the Partnership Broker program throughout the Hunter. The Hunter has a high level of youth unemployment and any support the Government can give the youth of the Hunter Region in gaining successful employment outcomes is in the best interests of the country.
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Maitland Business Chamber, New South Wales
Steve Thomson, President
Our local Partnership Broker organisation, Youth Express, has ensured that our business is informed and offered opportunity to effectively link with young people in the Hunter, to improve their school to work skills and our employment options.
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CMI Toyota, South Australia
Geoff Way, Training and Development Manager
Western Futures are a vital link between Schools and Industry. For the past 3 years working in collaboration with Andrew and Helen has contributed to employment of apprentices and valuable networking.
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Emerald Community House, Victoria
Lynne Trensky, Coordinator
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The Greater Building Society, New South Wales
Annette Sherman, Branch Manager
Our local Partnership Broker has ensured that our business has been able to effectively link with and support over 3000 young people in the Hunter, to improve their financial literacy skills and understanding during the last 3 years. This is a great opportunity for our young students to learn skills needed to survive and grow in our ever changing world.
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Waverley Christian College, Victoria
Chris Kynoch, Careers, VET and VCAL Coordinator
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PVS Workfind, Victoria
Ruth Murphy, Regional Operations Manager
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Renewal SA, South Australia
Chris Menz, Project Director – Bowden
Bowden has been working in partnership with Western Futures via the Partnership Broker program since 2012.
A key project objective of the Bowden development is to provide social inclusion and economic opportunities to the local community – one of our strategy to do this is linking high school students to our contractors and developers for work experience placements. Western Futures have provided key services to our project by brokering work experience placements between high schools and our developers and contractors within the Bowden development. If we didn’t have access to these services we would not be able to deliver these outcomes to the local community.
I strongly support the Partnership Broker program and would highly recommend Western Futures as a Partnership Broker provider.
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Geraldton Grammar School, Western Australia
John Royce, Principal
On behalf of the Geraldton Grammar School community I endorse the activities of the Mid West Youth Science Forum Partnership. I fully support their efforts to gain further funding for the continuation of work they do for the youth of Geraldton.
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MEGT Australia Ltd, Victoria
David Windridge, CEO
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Varley Group, New South Wales
Janet Dobbie, HR Manager
We have supported our local Partnership Broker’s AIMS Maths Application partnership that assists young people acquire improved maths application skills.
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Cebas Pty Ltd, T/A IKEA Adelaide, South Australia
Tara Cooper, HR Coordinator
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Catten Industries, Victoria
Ian Cubitt, General Manager
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Scoresby SC, Victoria
Gusty Martin, Principal
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Ausgrid, New South Wales
Greg Jaeger, Superintendent – Technical Training | Training | People & Services
We are aware of the support and interaction provided by partnership brokers to the Electro Industry in the Lower Hunter. The partnership brokers have been of great assistance in the coordination of partnerships between our organisation and students in the Electrotechnology career paths.
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HTN (Hospitality Training Network), New South Wales
Michael Bennett, CEO
Our local Partnership Broker has ensured that our business has been able to effectively link with young people in the Hunter, to improve their school to work skills. We have been lead partners in the Hospitality Inspiration Partnership that has continued to expand since its original development.
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3MDR Mountain District Radio 97.1fm, Victoria
Emma Johnson, Community Access Coordinator
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The University of Adelaide, South Adelaide
Leah Grantham, Director Partnerships and Projects University Engagement Branch
Over the years the University of Adelaide has developed a highly valued, mutually beneficial relationship with Western Futures Partnership Broker, the offices of which are located at the University’s Research Park at Thebarton in Adelaide’s western suburbs.
Western Futures has been a strong and active supporter of Western Region Enterprise Day (WRED), a community education event coordinated by the University of Adelaide for primary and secondary school students.
In this one day program, over 200 secondary and primary school students from the region have explored the benefits of developing entrepreneurial attitudes and approaches to their career prospects and future choices.
Over 3,200 young people have benefited from the learning experience over the last 17 years.
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Harris Scarfe, South Australia
Sally Frost, HR Manager SA & TAS
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NAB, New South Wales
Megan Dyson, Manager Maitland and East Maitland
Our local Partnership Broker with Youth Express has ensured that our business has been able to effectively link with and support over 3000 young people in the Hunter, to improve their financial literacy skills and understanding during the last 3 years. They have also been instrumental in ensuring the results of their work has received a NAB Impact award for a local partnership supporting youth, with many other projects and partnerships created between schools, business and community.
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Airfab Ground Support Equipment P/L, Victoria
Michael Millsteed, Manager
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The Mutual, New South Wales
Gary Hainsworth, Administration Manager
The Mutual (Maitland Mutual Building Society) is proud to be a part of the Partnership Brokers program.
Since 2010, The Mutual has joined forces with other local financial institutions to assist and educate students on a range of financial topics relating to personal money management skills.
Together we have reached over 3,000 young people in the Hunter region.
This program is invaluable. Students have the opportunity to speak with people that cover a range of topics relating to financial literacy. We hope to continue our support of the Partnership Brokers program in the future.
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Karem Woodcraft, Victoria
Julian Bristow, General Manager
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Sandvik, New South Wales
Troy Montgomery, Human Resource Manager
Our local Partnership Broker has ensured that our business has been able to effectively link with young people in the Hunter, to improve their school to work skills. We have been keen partners in the Work Inspiration initiative.
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Williams HR Consultancy, Victoria
Belinda Williams, Managing Director
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High Hopes, Victoria
Angie Wilcock, Director
It would be a tragedy for all concerned if funding for the current National Partnership Brokers Program were to be cut or discontinued. The foundations which have been laid on a national basis are extremely strong, and I can vouch personally for the success of the partnerships which have been forged and continue to flourish. Long may it continue!
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Bluelava, Victoria
Adam Whitbread, Director
Small business relies on the expert work of the Partnership Brokers at Local level who are uniquely placed to offer key brokerage and networking support. It is impossible to imagine a better return on investment than the National Partnerships Program which delivers simply outstanding value for all stakeholders.
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Survey Matters, Victoria
Brenda Mainland, Director
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Central Gippsland Health Service, Victoria
Frank Evans, CEO
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The Salvation Army – Pathways, Victoria
Craig Kelly, Regional Director
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Cessnock Business Chamber, New South Wales
Geoff Walker, President
We have worked closely with Youth Express in recent years on a number of levels and business forums involving several stakeholders including students, schools and business people. This has resulted in positive and tangible outcomes.
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Vinery Stud, New South Wales
David White, Stud Manager
As partnership brokers, Youth Express have been a vital component in establishing working and on the job training relationships with students wishing to enter our Industry. They have assisted us to attract young people into our Industry to address our skills shortages. We believe Youth Express are an essential support to young people transitioning from school into the workplace and would hope our new Government will continue to fund this vital organisation.
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White Diamond Constructions, South Australia
Sharon Woods, Manager
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East Grampians Health Service, Victoria
Nick Bush CEO
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MEGT, New South Wales
Michael Scarr, Business Relations Manager, Western NSW, New England, North Coast and Hunter
MEGT supports this wonderful program and we have seen first-hand the positive effect this initiative has made in the Hunter region.
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Blackbird Artisan Bakery, New South Wales
Carolyn Scott, Director Baker Owner
I hereby agree to wholeheartedly support this letter.
Youth Express and other similar Partnership Broker organisations link young people with industry and opportunity – this is critical to our collective future!
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Margan, New South Wales
Lisa Margan, Director
Partnership Broker services provided by Youth Express have helped our business connect with young people to support their transition from school to work and raise our business profile within our local community.
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Habitat Plumbing, South Australia
Daniel Bull, Manager
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Victoria Police (Northern Grampians), Victoria
Dani Richardson, Youth Resource Officer
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Dunedoo Area Community Group-Landcare, New South Wales
Sue Stoddart, OAM Secretary
This service needs to be retained in Rural NSW as it identifies and supports local youth.
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U-Install-it Kitchens, South Australia
Gordon McLeod and Kathryn Noble, Manager
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Dunedoo District Development Group, New South Wales
Marie Hensley, Coordinator
A vital link for Industry/ Education and community groups to support local youth and to improve educational and employment outcomes.
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Moolarben Coal( Yancoal Australian Group), New South Wales
Amanda Evans, HR Specialist
The partnership Program has enabled us to engage with schools to promote careers in mining.
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Skene Street Specialist School Stawell, Victoria
Robyn Anyon, Principal
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Adelaide Commercial Electrical, South Australia
Kym Olson and Alex Parker, Manager
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South West Institute of TAFE, Victoria
Peter Heilbuth, CEO
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Alkane Resources Ltd, New South Wales
Michael Sutherland, General Manager NSW
Alkane has engaged with Partnership Brokers for the past two years with the aim of connecting the communities where we operate with job opportunities.
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HotRock & KnowHands Education Consultancy, New South Wales
Phil Smith, NSW Facilitiator & Director
The Southern Sydney Business Education Network Partnership Broker has been very professional and proactive in supporting sustainability education initiatives in schools in the Sutherland Shire and beyond. First through HotRock, an organisation that supports high schools to take on sustainability initiatives, and now through KnowHands, a sustainability education consultancy, I have had the pleasure of working with dedicated, creative and resourceful staff at SSBEN. Our collaborations have resulted in:
• Partnerships between NGOs, businesses, schools and the local community college that have achieved high quality sustainability and learning outcomes for students
• Strengthened connections between students and employers
• Leadership skills for students in high schools
• Increased media attention for sustainability initiatives.
My experience is that SSBEN builds a community of support for students as they transition from school to the workforce.
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Yunggorendi Flinders, South Australia
Roland Wilson, Associate Lecturer/Academic
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Champion Bay Settlements, Western Australia
Anthony L Viner, Principal Director
We have been utilising a variety of training schemes over many years of our business life of 32 years. A must and a proven success both for opportunity & life skills.
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Sutherland Dyslexia Support Group & Learning Without Limits Project, New South Wales
Paula Goulden, Facilitator of support group & project coordinator LWL
Without the support of Sutherland BEN the Learning Without Limits project that supports high school students with learning disabilities such as dyslexia on how to use technology to support their disability and give them better outcomes at school would not be possible. Thank you Suzi and Sutherland BEN!
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University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales
Keith Crews, Professor of Structural Engineering and Associate Dean, External Engagement
This program is a brilliant intervention to engage young children in STEP education and make learning fun and effective.
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Dairy Farmers Milk Cooperative, Victoria
Ron Page, Regional Manager
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Ryans Group, Victoria
Richard Van Bergeijk, Specialised Services Manager
DECD, South Australia
Ann Leenders, Industry Skills Manager
In my role as Industry Skills Manager for DECD I greatly value the positive working relationship and support with the Community Partnerships Broker’s program since I first won my position in the South in 2010. I know that the schools in the outer South have benefited from this relationship and thus fully support it continuing beyond 2014.
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Goulburn Murray Leadership, Victoria
Amanda, EO
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Central Victorian Group Training, Victoria
Vaughan Adams, Manager
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African Think Tank, Victoria
Dr Berhan Ahmed, President
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Rosemount Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services, New South Wales
Lyn Harrison, CEO
Our partnership Broker has been integral to the development of a new program for extremely disengaged young people.
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Leaders of Tomorrow, Victoria
Aaron Mashano, Director
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The Shack Youth Services Incorporated, New South Wales
Jennifer Cockburn – Hillis, Coordinator
The support, guidance & knowledge Partnership Brokers have provided The Shack Youth Services in building partnerships with local schools & organisations has been invaluable.
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TAFE NSW Sydney Institute, New South Wales
Carmel Ellis-Gulli, College Director Randwick TAFE, Faculty Director, Community services and Health
An excellent service to young people.
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Ethnic Council Shepparton, Victoria
Dr Apollo, Vice President
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Tatachilla Lutheran College, South Australia
Penny McKenzie, VET Coordinator (2012-2013)
I support the continuation of this role.
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The Salvation Army Oasis Youth Support Network, New South Wales
Josh Field, Education Manager
The Partnership Brokers play a critical role in partnership brokering and stakeholder engagement. Without their expertise it would have made it impossible to have the effective roll out of many programs supporting the most at risk young people.
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SkillsOne Television, New South Wales
Brian Wexham, CEO
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Victoria University, Victoria
Dr Mimmi Watts, Senior Lecturer
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Tatura Milk Industries, Victoria
Andrew Shaw, Senior Human Resources Advisor
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UTS, New South Wales
Kristy McPhail, Facility of Engineering & I.T
The Sydney BEP manager drove the initiative forward, and has been seeking further business involvement. This program is a brilliant intervention to engage young children in STEM education whilst making the learning fun and effective. The hub partnership would not have formed without Sydney BEP’s involvement.
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Cardijn College, South Australia
Marlene Maney, Career Counsellor / VET Coordinator
Happy to support the continuation of the role.
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Communities for Children, Victoria
Claire Tarelli, Project Manager
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Best Start, Victoria
Sally Wright, Manager
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Australian Training Company, New South Wales
Helen Stig, RTO Manager
I have seen this project work first hand and it is a great initiative that provides pathways for young people into training and employment that are not otherwise easily accessible.
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Melbourne School of Land and Environment | University of Melbourne, Victoria
Karen Timmers, Regional Partnerships Project Coordinator
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WAYS Youth Services, New South Wales
Russel King, CEO
We greatly appreciate the support provided by Sydney BEP, in particularly their integration of our service and young people into their many and various networks of employers, corporations and education and training networks.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks, Victoria
Matthew Jackson, CEO
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YWCA NSW, New South Wales
Roger Kennedy, Head of Programs, impact and collaboration
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Be What You Want, New South Wales
Chris Hall, CEO
Sydney BEP and the Partnership Brokers program is a crucial organisation that we partner with to develop various community based activities. Their staff are experts in the fields and the network and services that we have access to help us tremendously as a small not for profit charity.
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Transfield Services Pty Ltd, Victoria
Loes Westerbeek-Veld, Executive Assistant
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City of Casey, Victoria
David Wilkinson, Director, Economic Development
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City of Greater Dandenong, Victoria
Katharina Verscharen, Manager Youth Services
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Rosemount Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services, Marrickville, New South Wales
Nicky Wells, Case Coordinator, Project ARC
Working with our Regional Partnership Broker from Sydney Business Education Partnership has been an integral part of Rosemount Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services especially with the pilot of Project ARC. The partnership Brokerage is beneficial for sharing information between organizations and gaining better resources and collaboration towards the individual needs of our young people, and the community.
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City of Sydney, New South Wales
John Maynard, Project Manager Safe City
Our regional Partnership Brokers have been an invaluable resource in the region in terms of bringing stakeholders together to address the needs of youth and supporting community capacity building.
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Queanbeyan City Travel and Cruise, New South Wales
Jenny Coooper, Owner/Manager
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Aldinga Timber and Hardware, South Australia
Nicky Herewane, Manager
We agree that the Partnership Broker role is an asset to the business community.
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Curves, New South Wales
Lara Zelenka, Owner/Manager
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Midwest Workforce Alliance, Western Australia
Rob Jefferies, Chair; Steve Douglas, Midwest Development Commission representative, and memebers
Keep up the great work. Where would we be if the program did not continue? It would be a great loss to the community.
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Chisholm Institute, Victoria
Peter Sells, Manager Technical Training Centre
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Anglicare, Victoria
Cathie Valentine, Manager Pakenhan
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Deziner Beauty, New South Wales
Louise McMahon, Ownder/Manager
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Flinders University, South Australia
Lee Pope, Manager Student Access Admissions, Careers, Examinations and Graduations
Happy to recommend and support the Partnership Broker position.
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Debbie-Maree Fashions, New South Wales
Debbie-Maree Carvolth, Ownder/Manager
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Transport Industry Skills Centre, New South Wales
Trish Mooney, Executive Officer
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Link Employment and Training, Victoria
Terry Brehney, General Manager
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Business Horsham, Victoria
Andrea Cross, Chair
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Diamond Valley College, New South Wales
Greg Williams, Principal
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Kennedys Bus & Coach, New South Wales
David Tagg, Business Manager
As a provider of an essential public transport service within the Shoalhaven area, it is critical we continue our collaborative approach in order to address issues of equity and opportunity for our youth. With respect the alternative is to have an environment of dysfunction re appear, this program has great future potential for the Shoalhaven area.
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LEAP into Health, Victoria
Julie Watts, Project Manager
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DEECD, Victoria
Vaughan Patullock, School University Liaison Officer (SULO)
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St George Illawarra Dragons RLFC, New South Wales
Paul Everill, Manager Dragons Community
Dragons Community acknowledge and support the value Partnership Brokers bring to the community. Helping young people make positive decisions impacts greatly on society and the Dragons are proud to be involved in these programs.
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University of Wollongong, New South Wales
Rochelle Jeffery, Business Development Manager
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Greater Shepparton City Council, Victoria
Rosemary Pellegrino, Health and Wellbeing Project Officer
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GV Health, Victoria
Carol Maddison, Director of Nursing & Midwifery, education & research
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Kiama Community College, New South Wales
Helen Zwicker, Executive Officer
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The Office Connection, New South Wales
Kathleen Morris, Managing Director
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Orca Manufacturing Pty Ltd., South Australia
Len Lyons, Manager
I support the Partnership Broker Program
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Roxby Downs Area School, South Australia
Ann O’Sullivan, Assistant Principal
Invaluable link with local business and students.
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Alignment Business Solutions, New South Wales
Samantha Hill, Managing Director
The Partnership Brokers I worked with really helped me to understand that I could contribute and give back to my community in a way that fit with my business. They also helped me to understand how important it is to mentor and support young people so that they can learn the skills they need to be effective in the workplace.
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Rural Health Academic Centre, University of Melbourne, Victoria
Jenni Goodwin, RCTS Student Placement Officer
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Bombala Council, New South Wales
Karen Cash, Economic Development Manager
The assistance our partnership broker has given to the Trade Training Centre at Bombala, work placement for young people and expos designed to provide information on various careers/industry is vital to youth from isolated regional locations such as Bombala. We fully support the ongoing funding of this important position.
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Goulburn Ovens TAFE Health Dept, Victoria
Jennifer Arnold, Commercial Manager
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La Trobe University, Victoria
Jenny Doyle, Associate Lecturer Nursing, Simulation education / Clinical
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Cooma- Monaro Shire Council, New South Wales
Natalie Fanning, Human Resources and Risk Manager
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Primary Care Connect & GVPCP, Victoria
Renata Spiller, Integrated Health Promotion Coordinator
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Technical Education Centre, GOTAFE, Victoria
John Lee, Manager
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Birdon Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Stephen Prohm, Quality & Safety Manager
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Macleay Vocational College, New South Wales
Mark Morrison, Principal
The partnership between the College and Mid Coast Connect has been a highly successful program for the College community. Through this partnership students have gained access to previously unattainable facilities and resources. They have been treated to opportunities that have broadened their scope of transition into the workplace, developed leadership skills and even kept some studying at College to achieve greater opportunities in their lives. All students at the College come from disrupted or transient domestic situations and need as much support as they can have access to, which Mid Coast Connect does as an immediate response and wider community empowering base.
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Shepparton ACE College, Victoria
Bronwyn Rose, Manager
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Flinders Christian Community College, Victoria
Helen McLoughlin, Head of Careers & VET
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Hastings Education Fund, New South Wales
Peter Cuskelly, Chair
Without the support of the local business community and Mid Coast Connect’s Partner Broker program, the 61 local students that we are currently assisting financially were in grave risk of not accessing their desired vocational training or securing their aspired career.
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Jaydee Events Pty Ltd, New South Wales
John Hutchison & Deanne Kennedy, Managing Directors
Mid Coast Connect have played an instrumental role in both encouraging and supporting the Dairy Australia’s Cows Create Careers project across the Mid Coast region of New South Wales over a number of years. The success of the project is the result of an enthusiastic team.
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Skills Plus, Victoria
Ben Vasiliou, General Manager
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Karingal Training, Victoria
Simon Dix, Business Development Officer
I support this letter.
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VERTO Ltd, New South Wales
Gabrielle Barlow, Area Performance Manger Mid North Coast
VERTO Australian Apprenticeship Centre has worked in partnership with our local Partnership Broker in developing stronger links with schools, community and industry in the promotion of school based traineeships.
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Elisabeth Murdoch College, Victoria
Sue Pearson, Transition and Pathways Support
It is very time consuming working with young people, especially those at risk of dropping out of school. I would be working in isolation if it were not for the LLEN, we as pathway workers would not be in a position to continue the networks and associations without the support and work that our local LLEN provides.
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Bennett Steel, New South Wales
Tanya Newman, Marketing, IT and CNC Cutting
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St Jude’s Primary School Langwarrin, Victoria
Mick Kerin, Principal
I am happy to support the letter. Politicians should see education as more than any one school can offer but an integration of learning from a variety of sources. The school model is no longer meeting the needs of many students so partnerships with community and business are paramount to allowing opportunities for all students to succeed.
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Kempsey Shire Council, New South Wales
Warren Boadle, Manager Community Relations
The role of Partnership Brokers in the shire is an important glue to bridge gaps between organisations and their common objectives. Collaboration and working together is the way forward for the greater good of the community and even more important with the evaporating funding opportunities. I give my support for the continuation of the program and the outcomes it creates.
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Somerville Secondary College, Victoria
Christopher Lloyd, Principal
I wholeheartedly support the letter from Carmen Auer (Chair – Partnership Brokers National Network) with regard to the level of difficulty involved in establishing partnerships between schools and business. We have a few very strong partnerships with some large national companies and it took a great deal of effort (and luck) to establish these links with companies such as Inghams Enterprises and Leighton Contractors. With the push for Business to become more involved in education it is vital that schools have support in establishing links with local and ‘not so local’ businesses.
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Solutions 4 Biz, New South Wales
Nigel Ayling, Business Consultant
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Eden Fisherman’s Club, New South Wales
John Hurst, Chief Executive Officer
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Chisholm Institiute, Victoria
Peter Harrison, Deputy CEO
On behalf of Chisholm Institute I support this open letter and support the value of the national partnership broker program.
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McClelland College, Victoria
Russell Paxino, VCAL Team Leader
Totally support the letter.
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Moruya Chamber of Commerce, New South Wales
Steven Picton, President
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Corporate Connexions International, New South Wales
Wayne Dedden, Director
What price is a child?
The PB Program has been the difference of success and its alternative in many communities across Australia – in particular regional and rural centres.
To see this program go will be a mistake. It is the glue between some busy & well meaning ‘bricks’.
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McAsh Oysters Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Kevin McAsh, Owner/Operator
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Brotherhood of St Laurence, Victoria
John Catto-Smith, Senior Manager Frankston & Mornington Peninsula
Partnership Brokers have successfully demonstrated their effectiveness in facilitating a range of partnerships between school, community and business in creating meaningful pathways for our young people.
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Dromana Secondary College, Victoria
Alan Marr, Principal
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Eurobodalla Toyota, New South Wales
David Sheppard, Fixed Operations Manager
Since our initial involvement with the program, we can identify with the significance of this body of work and the ongoing benefit to the regional community by nurturing our own people. This program enables local talent to be harnessed and retained within the local community.
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Bega Chamber of Commerce, New South Wales
Mal Barnes, President
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Brotherhood of St Laurence, Victoria
Melanie Wyatt, Peninsula Youth Connections Coordinator
Happy to support.
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Mornington Peninsula Shire, Victoria
Catherine O’Byrne, Traineeships and Special Projects Officer, Team Support & Development
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Eurobodalla Adult Education Centre, New South Wales
Rhonnie South, Manager
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MyCareerMatch, New South Wales
Nathan Chanesman, CEO
Happy to support. Too important for this service to disappear.
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Menzies, Victoria
Mary Beth Melton, General Manager Operations
I would like to support this letter on behalf of Menzies.
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Murrindindi Shire Council, Victoria
Cr Margaret Rae, Mayor
The Central Ranges LLEN [Partnership Broker] has been instrumental in increasing Year 12 completion rates; in encouraging and supporting trade training and apprenticeship opportunities; and in establishing a tertiary training institute within the Shire.
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Australian Red Cross – Murray Riverina Region, New South Wales
John Pocius, Regional Manager
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IPWEA NSW, New South Wales
John Roydhouse, Chief Executive Officer
IPWEA NSW is a professional organisation who seeks through its membership to enhance NSW Communities through excellence in Public Works and Services. For several years IPWEA NSW has supported the efforts of COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) through the annual Build a Bridge program. This program encourages young people to consider public works engineering as a career path at a regional level. Its ongoing achievements in promoting local home grown engineers has been recognised by IPWEA NSW, which continue to provide financial support and active mentors in the program.
IPWEA applauds the efforts of COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) in bringing together an ongoing local solution to a national skills shortage problem.
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Berry Street, Victoria
Tricia Quibell, Deputy Regional Director
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Plenty Valley Community Health, Victoria
Doreen Power, Chief Executive Officer
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Seymour Health [Closing The Health Gap Lower Hume Project], Victoria
Rebecca Welsh, Aboriginal Community Development Worker
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Campbell Page Youth Connections Program, New South Wales
Rob McGregor, Area Manager Youth Connections
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Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Victoria
Jill Karena, Manager – Community Development
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Kooringal HS, New South Wales
Glyn Leyshon, Principal
COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) has greatly assisted our school to develop links with Charles Sturt University to assist with the introduction of a new course for Gifted and Talented students. It was through their brokerage that we were able to source mentors for students and make the vital links with senior academics in the university.
As a result the course has gone from strength to strength and it would have been a much tougher road without the support of a professional partnership brokerage program.
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Argyle Community Housing Ltd, New South Wales
Debbie Skelton, General Manager, Customer and Community Development
COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) was a critical conduit in our major Community Development project for The Rotaract Park redevelopment in Young NSW. COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) provided the linkages to engage young people into our project making it the great success that it was. COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) are an integral service connecting disadvantaged youth to economic participation opportunities in the Riverina.
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Anchorage Houseboats, Victoria
Mike Dalmau, Sales Manager
I am happy to support the Letter to the Prime Minister to advocate that the role of Partnership Brokers in our Community is a good use of Taxpayers money in seeking to provide positive outcomes for our youth by bringing together the Education sector, Businesses and the Local Community. This is based on my role as a long term Board Member of the CRLLEN and having experienced the results of a well-managed program that is responsible to a local Board. This is not to say that the current system cannot be improved; we are always seeking ways in ever changing times to provide better outcomes for our youth and our community.
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Mount Austin High School, New South Wales
Susan Lockwood, Principal
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GOTAFE, Victoria
Jenny Jackson, Manager – Education Development Services
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Wagga Wagga Business Chamber, New South Wales
Larry Buete, Business Manager
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Chris’s Timber and Hardware, Seymour, Victoria
Michelle Bradley, Administration Manager
In an area with a high rate of socioeconomic disadvantage and high youth unemployment, such as ours, the Partnership Broker program is essential in bringing together educators, business and the community to continually work on these issues. There have been a number of inroads, such as creation of a local trade centre, but the relationships and networks need to be maintained for continued progress. I believe the LLEN/Partnership Broker programs are the best established means for such work to continue, and urge continued funding.
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Transfield Services, Victoria
Loes Westerbeek-Veld, Community Engagement Manager
Through the support and networks of the partnership brokers, Transfield Services has been able to establish successful local partnerships and relationships in numerous communities across Australia. Their assistance has supported Transfield Services in delivering our community engagement approach in the local communities. The partnership brokers support has provided opportunities to a number of young people, assisted in their learning and development and supported them in establishing a career pathway with Transfield Services and/or our clients.
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Greater Hume Shire Council, New South Wales
Steven Pinnuck, General Manager
Council fully supports the School Business Community Partnership Brokers Program as it provides the essential link between business and the school system to support work experience programs and then by extension the recruitment of school based trainees, full time trainees and apprentices. There is no doubt that job creation will suffer if support for this program is withdrawn.
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Kyneton Community Learning Centre, Victoria
Mary Hogarth, Centre Manager
The work of the Central Ranges LLEN [Partnership Broker] has been invaluable in achieving educational outcomes for young people in the Macedon Ranges Shire.
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Select Harvest, Victoria
Sandra Kitt, Human Resource Manager
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Davison Motor Group, Victoria
Garry Davison, Managing Director
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Fishers IGA, Victoria
Alan Fisher, Managing Director
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Treasury Estate Wines, Victoria
Brett Thurman, Packaging Manager
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My Chemist, Victoria
Eric Oguzkata, Managing Director
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Wagga Wagga City Council, New South Wales
Madeleine Scully, Community Services Manager; Lisa Saffery, Social Planning Coordinator
Compact (Partnership Brokers) is an integral part of our community sector and are an agency that provide a catalyst for combined action in Wagga Wagga across many youth platforms. Compact (Partnership Brokers) have worked and continue to work to build collaborative relationships between schools, government agencies (including council) and service providers, examples include the annual youth mental health forum, Young Entrepreneurs program, Wagga Impact Network – Child, Youth & Family Alliance, Careers in the Spotlight and a number of other programs and projects. These programs, amidst many others, provide regional youth and youth at risk opportunities for future employment, to reconnect with education, to develop new skills and learn how to help themselves and those around them. Their contribution to the developing supports and networks for local youth through collaborative approaches will be long reaching and I envisage will deliver cost savings for government focussed on the wellbeing of youth into their adult years. Their partnership approaches are always open handed and inclusive. They are a valued resource that is integral to coordinated service provision in our regional setting.
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The Personnel Group, New South Wales
Travis Cohalan, Site Manager, Wagga Wagga
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Flinders Christian Community College, Victoria
Helen McLoughlin, Head of Careers & VET
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Col Gowers Homes, Victoria
Col Gowers, Managing Director
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GTS, Victoria
Damien Matthews, Managing Director
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Mildura Truck Centre, Victoria
Glenn Leake, Managing Director
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SMGT, Victoria
David Stevenson, CEO
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JayDee Ground Care, Victoria
Catherine Densley, Director
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Euston Club, Victoria
Ray Jones, CEO
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Engineers Australia Riverina Group, New South Wales
Stephen Warrell, Chair
Compact (Partnership Brokers) has provided Engineers Australia Riverina Group with invaluable assistance in encouraging high school students to consider Engineering as a future career.
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Continuing Education and Arts Centre of Alexandra Inc (CEACA), Victoria
Charlie Bissett, Cheif Executive Officer
CEACA have worked with Central Ranges LLEN [Partnership Broker] on numerous projects and programs. The mutual benefit to both organisations has been wonderful and I would have no hesitation to continue to work with CRLLEN.
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Murrindindi Training Institute, Victoria
Silke Koerner, Business Development Manager
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Wagga Autism Support Group Inc, New South Wales
Deborah Bewick, President
Our organisation works with young people with the added pressure of disability. Compact (Partnership Brokers) has been very beneficial to our Youth Program.
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Junee High School, New South Wales
Matthew Brown, Principal
COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) has performed invaluable service for Junee High School over a number of years. They are entirely deserving of funding as their work with schools is peerless.
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Alexandra District Hospital, Victoria
Heather Byrne, Chief Executive Officer / Director of Nursing
CRLLEN [Partnership Broker] has been a major driver in the establishment of the Murrindindi Training Institute and has provided invaluable advice and information on integrating industry requirements with post-secondary training programs.
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Goodstart Early Learning, New South Wales
Jacqui Peters, Area Manager
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RSM Bird Cameron, New South Wales
Tim Gumbleton, Principal
As a Principal of RSM Bird Cameron, a national firm of Chartered Accountants, and as Country Chair of the Riverina Group of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, I am conscious of the need to promote careers in Accounting, and strongly believe that the Partnership Broker program is essential in delivering information regarding career opportunities to students at High School, and at University level. I have under the Partnership Broker program presented at various High Schools undertaking business studies in the Riverina, as well as many Careers Events at the Charles Sturt University, information regarding my role at RSM Bird Cameron, the training pathways available, and the different roles that accounting can take you into, once you are qualified. There has been a downturn in the numbers of students going on to Accounting, and the Partnership Broker program and events, presentations and information sessions aims to address the skills shortages in the Region.
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North East Community Initiatives, Victoria
Katrina Bendeman, Operations Manager
Central Ranges LLEN [Partnership Broker] has been instrumental in the support of youth initiatives in our region. Without their expertise in brokering and facilitating our interactions with schools we would not have been able to provide training opportunities for our young people. Support is continually needed to foster these partnerships to ensure all our youth have futures.
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The Arts Centre Gold Coast, Queensland
Destry Puia, General Manager
Our work with The Smith Family via the Partnership Brokers program has been instrumental in realising our aspirations of creating better partnerships with our indigenous community. Without their on the ground support and real community connections we would have wondered aimlessly trying to navigate a social and cultural terrain that was unfamiliar. Instead we are now on the cusp of releasing our first ever Reconciliation Action Plan that acknowledges and celebrates the traditional custodians of the Gold Coast.
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Mitchell Shire Council, Victoria
Cr Rodney Parker, Mayor
Employment and training outcomes for youth and the broader Mitchell Shire community remain a top priority. Initiatives including the Partnership Broker Program have demonstrated evidence of delivering outcomes locally. Whilst Council understands the financial constraints of Government, a cessation of this program would impact on employment outcomes and the continued development of strengthened ties between business and education sectors, across the Nation.
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YMCA Victoria, Victoria
Brendan Smith, Camps Regional Development Manager
Programs like the LLEN [Partnership Broker] provide opportunities for children in regional areas to explore and establish ambitions and vocations that otherwise may not present themselves.
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TAFE NSW – Riverina Institute, New South Wales
Anne Lowe, Director, Community Services, Health & Vocational Access
Educating young people and preparing them for work and life beyond school is a responsibility shared by schools, business and the broader community. Working alongside educators, businesses have a critical role to play as active partners in the learning and development of young Australians. It is only by working together that schools, businesses and the broader community can improve student outcomes, create a more agile and responsive education and training sector, and develop young people who are qualified and work ready. Engaging businesses as active partners in education who contribute and influence the learning and development of their future workforce is central to this goal of improving student outcomes.
As a partner in education, business has many strengths and a unique perspective to contribute. This includes supporting the development of occupation specific skills, as well as generic employability skills that prepare young people for the world of work.
However, making connections, developing relationships and building partnerships between the education and business sectors can be difficult. The two sectors have very different ways of approaching their work.
Partnership Brokers, acting as independent intermediaries, have proven to be an important asset in enabling business to build stronger connections with the education sector and from effective, enduring and mutually beneficial partnerships.
While improved education and transition outcomes for young people are the central purpose of these partnerships, engaging with schools and young people also provides benefits for business. Most importantly, partnerships enable business to play an active role in addressing the workforce development challenges that are holding many businesses back.
Australia’s network of Partnership Brokers is an important piece of infrastructure that supports business and builds the capacity of schools, businesses and community stakeholders to act collectively at a local, state and national level.
Given the broad range of benefits to individuals, society and the nation, funding a program that supports the development of school, business and community partnership is an important role for the Australian Government. With the continued support of the Partnership Brokers program, business is ready to maximise its contribution to the goal that all of us share; all young Australians reaching their full social and economic potential.
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Outdoor Education Group, Victoria
Tony Pammer, Chief Executive Officer
The Central Ranges LLEN [Partnership Broker] is a key player in creating training opportunities that are extremely important for us an employer. Regional employers like OEG rely heavily on LLEN’s to drive training creation that is vital to our viability.
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Riverina Local Land Services, Victoria
Ray Willis, Acting General Manager
Riverina Local Land Services are pleased to participate in the CEO for a Day Program launched by COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) in Wagga Wagga this week.
Through this program, COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) is facilitating the connection between organisations and Aboriginal children in schools to create meaningful work experiences and mentoring.
COMPACT (Partnership Brokers) provide an important link in closing the gap for Aboriginal youth in this region and we support their bid for continued funding.
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Roda Graphics Australia, Victoria
Brad Quilliam, Director
It is paramount that the continuation for our CRLLEN [Partnership Broker] is supported by government to continue the many levels of engagement and guidance between our secondary schools and local industry. To further strengthen the development of pathways to employment for our secondary students is such a priority for the future and lifestyle here in our proud nation. It is what sets developing and under-developing countries apart when this is fully supported by government and down well.
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Shoalhaven Business Chamber, New South Wales
Jennifer Stewart, General Manager
The marrying of students with businesses & to have a win/win outcome is so important to shape the future workplace.
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Pyrenees Shire Council, Victoria
Maria Loriente, Community Liaison Officer
The Highlands LLEN has been instrumental in forging stronger partnerships in the Pyrenees Shire providing effective leadership and innovation with a strategic approach.
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uWorkin Pty Ltd, Victoria
Phillip Cooper, Managing Director
From experience and observation, I believe a national jobs and training focus for the youth segment requires a local delivery model for it to be executed effectively at ground zero. The regional disparity of youth unemployment and local drivers behind this, means a “local knowledge” approach is critical.
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Southern Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Industry, New South Wales
Darren Vine, Director – Economic Development & Grants
Fully support this program from both a Business and Local business chamber viewpoint. Happy to be an active participant going forward.
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Joy Global (Aust) Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Darren Vine, Major Projects Procurement Manager
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City of Ballarat, Victoria
Geoff Robins, Coordinator Youth Services
The City of Ballarat is very pleased to share such an open and supportive relationship with the LLEN. We are able to work together at a strategic level to collaborate and coordinate many youth focused programs for the area. We have recently enjoyed being a partner in initiatives such as the Jobs & Skills Drive, Change It Up and cyba.com.au.
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Mission Australia, Queensland
Frances Sargent, Program Manager/ Port Macquarie and Kempsey Youth Program
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The Haven Community Limited, New South Wales
Shane McMullen, General Manager
Our aged care facility and residents have benefited greatly from the (Partnership Broker) program. We have seen the development opportunity it provides a young person in preparing themselves for the future and it would be a great shame for the program to be discontinued.
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VACSAL, Victoria
Tony Lovett, Community Services Coordinator
The LLEN have helped us to broker a new homework club for Aboriginal young people and families and has co-chaired the CHKEN meetings. They are a great resource for helping sift through all the strategies to find the organisations or people who are willing to help an idea get off the ground.
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Highlands Pit Lane, New South Wales
Melissa Meredith, Customer Service/Human Resources Manager
It has been a pleasure working with these groups of young people. Watching their skills and self esteem grow has been very rewarding and we enjoyed the process of helping them reach some of their goals.
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Manager, Creswick Neighbourhood Centre, Victoria
Kim Gillot, Creswick Community Action Network member
This year through our Community Action Network, the LLEN helped us form an ongoing relationship with the DOTS program which has seen 10 local Creswick young people get access to education that was not previously offered. The interactions between the young people and the existing Neighbourhood Centre community has been a highlight to me personally and has brought a new buzz to the centre.
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Foreman & Sheean, Victoria
Tim Sheean, General Manager
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Robinson Plumbing, Victoria
Anthony Robinson, Manager
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Devillee’s Refrigeration, Victoria
Peter Devillee, Managing Director
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Prince’s Court Homes, Victoria
Garry Wescombe, CEO
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Taggart Consulting, New South Wales
Dr Jim Taggart OAM, Managing Director
One of our great assets are our youth and if you believe in this statement you need to support it not just in words but in resources to programs that have a demonstrated positive outcome, assisting our youth to transition through school to work.
As a nation we need to implement positive programs to help our youth. We either pay the price now or pay it later. We must make a choice to invest as that is in the best interests of our youth and nation
You must provide resources to help our youth, it is the best outcomes for all stakeholders.
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Australian Premium Dried Fruits, Victoria
Neville Mitchell, Director
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APlus Apprenticeship and Trainee Services, Victoria
Paul Bottern, CEO
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Majestiic Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Ingrid Ursua, Director
I would like to extend our many thanks for your efforts in connecting us with the right industry experts to partner for our educational projects.
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Civil Contractors Federation, Victoria
John Stewart, CEO
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Sarino Russo Epping, Victoria
Nola Curran, Manager
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ZENRG Finance Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Allan Chan, Director
Breed (Partnership Broker) is an excellent platform which identifies the needs of the community and source/connect businesses/stakeholders who would support these initiatives through networking events, seminars and social media. Breed’s staff are really passionate about what they do and they definitely have been and continue to add tremendous value in our local community. We (ZENRG Finance) running a mortgage brokering business see the need/value to have Breed as part of our strategic partner, they provide access to programs in our local community such as the (young entrepreneurs just to name a few) where we could add value through our own skills, experiences and capabilities rather than a monetary focus & encourage other businesses to the same have a social responsibility component in their business.
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Northlink, Victoria
Skye D’Avoine, Manager, i-step program
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APlus Apprenticeship and Trainee Services, Victoria
Paul Bottern, CEO
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Featherdale Wildlife Park, New South Wales
Lisa Christie, Adminstration Manager
We could not run our Partnership programs without the support and assistance of BREED Partnership Broker). The partnership is extremely beneficial for our business, my staff and the community.
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VACC, Victoria
Brigitte Reinbold, Field Manager Auto Apprenticeships
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Skills Savvy – HR and Recruitment Specialist, New South Wales
Fiona Neumann, Director
Breed (Partnership Brokers) provide enormous support to the community. They continually strive to help young Australians benefit the education system, regardless of their circumstances. My first involvement with Breed was offering advice and support to young mums who were desperately trying to survive as a new mum and also finish school. In addition Skills Savvy is now involved in offering workshops to high schools in order to better prepare them for work when they leave school. The community/high schools rely on Breed to provide them with support and guidance on what programs are out there. Breed look to find the appropriate support the school/community requires.
Their efforts and endless and are definitely needed in our community.
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Victoria Police, Victoria
Tim Forster, Leading Senior constable 30476, Youth Resource Officer
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Smith Family, Victoria
Nicola Kolb, Program Coordinator
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Student Employment Options Pty Ltd, New South Wales
Queenie Connell, CEO
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Wellington Shire Council, Victoria
John Websdale, General Manager Development
Wellington Shire has worked very closely and successfully with the Partnership Broker program to help improve employment prospects in a number of key local industries.
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Albury City, Victoria
Cr Kevin Mack, Mayor
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Council of Catholic School Parents NSW/ACT, New South Wales
Danielle Cronin, Executive Director
The Partnership Broker program has been instrumental in supporting schools to engage more meaningfully with students, parents, the broader community, business and industry. I have worked in education at the state and national level for over 10 years and can say with confidence that the Partnership Broker program has had a measurable impact on students, schools and their communities. Brokers bring skills, knowledge and contacts that many schools themselves do not have – there would be a gap not easily filled if the program was to end. Students, families and schools would lose an important source of support and practical assistance. The program added an effective and innovative dimension to educational provision in Australia – something that other international jurisdictions would no doubt be interested in if the Commonwealth chose to promote it more widely.
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Australian Industry Group Training Services, Victoria
Cheryl Cornish, Area Manager – Riverina
Having worked with the NELLEN and community partnership brokers for over 10 years now, I am devastated to think the future of these programs would not be continuing.
With Wodonga and surrounds being recently identified as having one of the higher youth unemployment rates in regional Victoria this is not the time to be cutting programs that are making a real difference. I have worked with the brokers in promoting School based apprenticeships, and in programs that are better preparing young people for work in the manufacturing sector. Despite a national downturn in this sector our region shows a strong and diverse sector that needs to attract more young people. Our brokers are the most effective and efficient way to achieve this and reinvigorate youth employment across the region.
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Advance TAFE, Victoria
Karen Bird, Executive Manager, Learning & Innovation
The LLEN has been an important link between schools, VET and higher education providers ensuring sound learning outcomes for youth across the Gippsland region.
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The Junction Works, New South Wales
Jamie De Bruyn, Youth Case Manager
I support the refunding of the Australian Government’s School Business Community Partnership Brokers program.
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Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council, New South Wales
Fiona Snape, CEO
The support to Tamworth LALC by the Community Partnership Brokers program has been invaluable making connections and relationship development.
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Moree Secondary College, New South Wales
Sheree Cayirylys, Careers Advisor
The Partnership brokers program has enabled the establishment of programs such as the Woolworths Retail Industry Partnership Program which has improved work readiness, understanding of and experience with the job application process, understanding of the retail industry and improved employment. The program has also enabled the Good Start Early Learning program to be very successful in encouraging young people to enter childcare as a career. Without the Partnership Brokers Program the link between schools and business/industry would be weakened.
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Centacare NENW-headspace Tamworth, New South Wales
Helen Carter, Service Manager
Partnership brokers have provided an amazing opportunity to link education, business and support services together. The contribution they are able to provide in bringing these together is invaluable to being able to have a number of quality events for increasing young people’s opportunities in life.
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St Edward’s Primary School South Tamworth, New South Wales
Gary McSweeney, Principal
I have found Careers Network Inc. to be a most professional organisation which is easy to work with and an organisation which achieves results.
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PCYC Moree, New South Wales
Andrew Ryan, Manager
When the community works together, we provide a platform for our children to be good citizens.
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Regional Development Australia Northern Inland, New South Wales
Nathan Axelsson, Executive Officer
An invaluable link between formal education and the workforce at a time of skyrocketing youth unemployment and youth disengagement, particularly in regional Australia. This program yields tangible outcomes.
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City of Kwinana, Western Australia
Joel Warner, Manager, Business Development
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Member for Gympie, Queensland
David Gibson, MP
I have been approached by Community Solutions Gympie to provide a letter of support for the schools Partnership Broker program and I am delighted to do so.
Community Solutions Gympie manages the Schools Partnership Broker program across the Wide Bay Burnett region working with local schools and partnering with businesses, the community and with parents and carers.
One of the aims of the Partnership Broker program is to keep students engaged in education and with only 48% of people living in the Wide Bay Burnett area having completed year 12 attainment, compared with 68% for Queensland and 69% for Australia, as at the last Census for the 25-34 year age group, there is a very real need for a program such as this in this area.
The program also aims to provide the necessary support to improve education and successful transitions to further education training or employment for all young people.
It is my understanding that the Schools Partnership Broker program is only funded until December 2014. However, I feel that there is a need for this program to continue into the future and I wholeheartedly support Community Solutions Gympie in the role that they play in managing this partnership.
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Bundaberg State High School, Queensland
Anthony Lanskey, Deputy Principal
Bundaberg SHS gladly provides this letter of support for Community Solutions Partnership Broker Role.
Over the last 12 months Partnership Brokers have been instrumental in linking our school with the wider community and industry to assist in establishing programs which benefit Bundaberg High School students.
Programs include:
- Alternative Programs for at Risk Year 10 Students – working with the Tom Quinn Centre and Surf Life Saving Australia
- LINKS program referrals for Year 11 and 12 school leavers to remain engaged in learning and transitioning successfully into the community.
- Bundaberg Regional Trade Training Centre – supporting the building of school industry partnerships.
Without the services and support of a Partnership Broker, these programs may not have eventuated. The Partnership Broker has enabled our school to draw on businesses, community organisations and industry groups to support programs for our students.
Bundaberg SHS believes Partnership Brokers can provide opportunities to engage our students and we support the contribution of the program.
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Hervey Bay Electorate Office, Queensland
Ted Sorenson, State Member of Parliament
I write to support Community Solutions in their pursuit of delivering the Partnership Brokers programme.
This programme fosters a well-rounded community approach in supporting young people as they learn and develop, with a focussed goal of ensuring that young Australians attain year 12 or equivalent qualifications.
The programme operates nationally and is based on the principle that education and training for young people is a collective responsibility. With this in mind, partnerships are built between school and training organisations, business and industry, community organisations and parents and families.
Community Solutions has a long history of providing valuable programs to assist our wider community. The benefits in this program are vital for our young children to feel engaged and supported, in what can be seen as a daunting time of their lives and schooling. The Community Solutions team consistently demonstrates their capacity to provide commitment and support to ensure that all of their participants are fully engaged in any program they deliver.
I believe this initiative is very worthwhile and I wish Community Solutions success with their application.
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Alternative Education Programme, Queensland
Tracy Jenkins, AEP Coordinator
I understand that Partnership Broker programme is seeking funding to continue their role in our local community. I run an Alternative Education Programme (AEP) for Maryborough and Aldridge State High Schools which targets disengaged students with the aim of either reintegrating them back into the mainstream system, or finding them alternate options for education or employment.
The AEP relies on community support in order to offer workshops and programmes that provide opportunities for young people to develop and advance life skills including identifying, maintaining and enhancing social and emotional wellbeing. The Partnership Broker Programme has been working alongside the AEP in order to provide support in the form of linking other programmes, organisations and community contacts for the purpose of improving individual success.
The Partnership Brokers work specifically to assist in the development of building positive, long term relationships with agencies and organisations in the local area. The Alternative Education Programme is supportive of the Partnership Broker’s role and feels it is an imperative resource for the youth who attend this programme and the community in general.
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Tech Supportive, Victoria
Rob Wyatt
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Penfold Motors, Victoria
Andrew Fritall
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Free As a Bird – Free Range Eggs, Victoria
Graeme Barwise
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Northern Jag, Victoria
Robert Leonard
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We Are Media, Victoria
Marcus Thompson
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Eastern Food Alliance, Victoria
Kevin Hall
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Silver Arrows, Victoria
Lisa Leonard
As an organisation that places focus on self, others and the natural environment, in particular our local community, we fully support a partnership broker agreement.
A lot of good people, well intentioned and hardworking will be disadvantaged by an end or reduction in this program’s funding. That does not include or consider the many young people who benefit from this excellent program.