Global not for profit leader in employment, education and training, The BUSY Group, has launched our newest initiative in New Zealand, Welfare that Works – Community Job Coaching. Available in Auckland, this 26-week program helps young jobseekers build confidence, learn new skills and take meaningful steps into employment.
The program supports jobseekers aged 18 to 24 who have been receiving Jobseeker Support for three to twelve months. Participants receive Employment Pathway Plans, personalised coaching and ongoing mentoring to help them move off benefits and into long-term work.
Supporting jobseekers in Auckland
In partnership with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD), Welfare that Works – Community Job Coaching will support 140 young people over two years, providing early intervention and practical job readiness support.
Through one-on-one coaching, participants work with trained employment specialists who take the time to understand their strengths, challenges and career goals. The program includes:
- Personal needs assessment – we’ll take time to understand your situation, barriers and what you need to succeed
- Your Employment Pathway Plan– together, we’ll create a clear, achievable pathway to the right job for you
- One-on-one coaching – regular sessions with an experienced coach who’s invested in your success
- Skills development – build your confidence, interview skills, resume writing and job-ready capabilities
- Job search assistance – get help finding opportunities, applying for roles and preparing for interviews
- Ongoing support – weekly check-ins to keep you on track and motivated
This structure helps participants stay confident and supported as they transition into work.
“We are proud to bring The BUSY Group’s expertise of connecting people to work to Tāmaki Makaurau, Aotearoa,” said Sharon Potaka, Executive General Manager. “Our local team is passionate about helping young people gain the confidence, capability and direction they need to thrive in work and in life.”
Building on a strong foundation in education and employment
The launch of Welfare that Works – Community Job Coaching follows the successful establishment of The BUSY School Auckland campus earlier in 2025. The BUSY School provides an alternative education pathway for disengaged youth, helping them reconnect with learning and move into apprenticeships, vocational training or employment.
Together, these initiatives reflect The BUSY Group’s ongoing commitment to helping people of all backgrounds gain the skills, confidence and support they need to thrive.
Paul Miles, Global Managing Director of The BUSY Group said, ‘This is exactly why BUSY was created. Backing Unemployed Youth – it’s a part of our name. Having the privilege to support young people get into work is at the very heart of what we do.’
“To launch BUSY Employment NZ is a major step forward. For nearly 50 years our team has refined the way we support young people into employment and to launch The BUSY School and BUSY Employment in 2025 rounds out a remarkable year for our commitment to New Zealand.”
Paul Miles, Managing Director of The BUSY Group
Who is eligible for Welfare that Works – Community Job Coaching
To join the program, participants must:
- Be 18 to 24 years of age
- Be receiving Jobseeker Support for between three and twelve months
- Live in Auckland Central
- Be referred by their local MSD office
Once referred, participants are matched with a BUSY job coach who helps them set goals, identify training or work experience opportunities and build the confidence to succeed in employment.
Why community job coaching matters
Young adults who are unemployed or disengaged from work often face barriers such as limited experience, low confidence or lack of connections. Programs like Welfare that Works – Community Job Coaching provide structure, mentorship and real opportunities to break those cycles.
By focusing on individualised support and community-based coaching, BUSY helps participants gain:
- Job readiness and employability skills
- Access to local employers
- Motivation and self-belief
- Sustainable work outcomes
This person-centred approach reflects a wider shift in employment services from one-size-fits-all training toward tailored pathways that meet each person where they are.
Find out more
To learn more or make a referral, contact the BUSY Welfare that Works – Community Job Coaching team in Auckland at: Jobseeker@thebusyschool.org.nz