The BUSY Group has been awarded the contract to deliver BUSY GRIT (Girls Rising Into Trades), a dedicated early-intervention and prevention program supporting young women aged 14 to 17 in Logan and Cairns.
Designed for young women who are disengaged, or at risk of disengaging, from education, BUSY GRIT recognises that re-engagement often takes more than a classroom and a timetable. It takes trust, consistency and the right support around the individual.
Thanks to Queensland Government’s Department of Youth Justice and Victim Support Kickstarter grant, from February 2026, BUSY GRIT will support 120 young women across Logan and Cairns. Each community will run four cohorts of up to 15 participants (60 per location), with every cohort completing a structured 10-week program that combines:
- Weekly one-to-one support sessions,
- Group-based industry experiences that introduce participants to trade pathways, including male-dominated industries where local skill shortages exist.
The program will be delivered in environments that feel safe and familiar to participants, including schools and community spaces. Alongside one-to-one support, participants will take part in activities such as trade tasters, site visits and industry engagement, delivered by experienced youth practitioners and supported by The BUSY Group’s networks and specialist services, including BUSY Sisters, an Australian Apprenticeships Specialist Support Service.
Chief Executive Officer of The BUSY Group, Ms Leonie Carlile, said BUSY GRIT is built around relationships and practical pathways.
“Many of the young women we meet have experienced disruption, instability, or a loss of confidence in education,” Ms Carlile said.
“BUSY GRIT starts with listening. It’s about creating a safe, respectful space and giving young women the time and support to reconnect with learning and explore pathways they may not have considered possible.”
General Manager of Youth and Community at The BUSY Group, Mr Glen O’Keefe, said early, tailored support can change the direction of a young person’s life.
“When young people disengage early, the impacts can follow them for years,” Mr O’Keefe said.
“This program isn’t about forcing outcomes. It’s about restoring self-belief, building aspirations, and helping young women connect to education, training and employment in a way that makes sense for them.”
Referrals to the program will be accepted from local schools, youth justice, police, community organisations and families. Participants will complete an assessment session prior to enrolment, with parent and self-referrals also welcome.
An official announcement for the BUSY GRIT program was held on Thursday 21 January 2026 at Skill360 Training Centre, Cairns, ahead of the first cohort commencing on 23 February 2026. In attendance was Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support, Laura Gerber.
“We are investing in early intervention because we know it’s a critical step to prevent youth from falling into a life of crime,” Minister Gerber said.
“This program gives at-risk girls support to make better choices and find a positive career path preventing offending before it occurs.”
Read the full Ministerial Statement.
Further information regarding referrals and any enquiries about BUSY GRIT will be available in the lead-up to commencement at: https://www.busyatwork.com.au/youth-and-community-services/busy-grit/
MEDIA CONTACTS:
BUSY GRIT spokesperson
Glen O’Keefe | General Manager, Youth and Community Services
glen.o’keefe@busyatwork.com.au | 0482 932 766