News and Insights

As we begin the transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the need for some people to access advocacy services has been highlighted and remains a subject of discussion. To enhance the opportunity for an individual to exercise choice and control within the new system, the support of an individual advocate can be beneficial during the planning and assessment process, as well as to assist with complaints or contentions. There are a number of positions that impact the current operating environment for advocacy services.

Data released yesterday by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) revealed the overall apprentice and trainee commencements were down by 3.7 per cent compared to the same period last year. The overall decrease can be attributed to a decline in the number of commencements in trade occupations, down 10.8% to 27 900 for the March 2016 quarter when compared with the March 2015 quarter.

Getting your first job can do a lot for your confidence as 18 year Ethal Dodd knows. After leaving school two years ago the former Bundamba High School student spent hundreds of hours searching for a job without luck.

Jeremy Sinn is an enthusiastic and dedicated young man who has recently landed a full time job as a car detailer with Kingaroy based company, Bill Hull Car Centre. A former Maryborough State High School student, Jeremy was always keen to move into the workforce but wasn’t sure of what pathway to take to help him achieve his goal.

Employed by OSMAC Group Training, the fourth year apprentice has been recently selected to represent Queensland at the 2016 WorldSkills Australia National Competition in Melbourne from 6 – 8 October. WorldSkills is the largest trades and skills showcase in the country and this year nearly 500 young apprentices, trainees and students from all corners of Australia will compete in 50 categories for the coveted title of “National Champion”.

Twenty year old Jacob Llewellyn knows what it’s like to be out of job and what it can do for your self confidence. The former Lowood State High School student had been unemployed for two years before he had the opportunity to take part in an exciting new program BUSY At Work is delivering with Careers Australia.