Helping retrenched workers retrain and connect to job opportunities

Jeremy Rockliff,Minister for Education and Training

More than 330 Tasmanians have sought help through the Tasmanian Government’s $6.3 million Rapid Response Skills Initiative, and a further 130 have been referred to the Skills Matching Service.

While many Tasmanians and businesses are facing challenges due to COVID-19, it is encouraging to see individuals and businesses engaging with support available to assist them through these tough times.

The Rapid Response Skills Initiative provides $3,000 for training, career advice and assistance for purchasing work health and safety gear for Tasmanian’s who need new, work-ready employees.

Since the initiative began in March:

  • 330 Tasmanians have sought help with the Rapid Response Skills Initiative;
  • 130 Tasmanians have been referred to the Skills Matching Service;
  • 30 Tasmanian displaced workers have been connected with local employers through the Skills Matching Service; and
  • 258 Tasmanians have signed up to training, or are actively pursuing training options to broaden their skills through the Rapid Response Skills Training Support Program.

Importantly, more than just training people it offers a holistic approach to finding a job by supporting and encouraging job seekers to open up to a range of new possibilities.

The Government is working to find new roles for those made redundant in current high-demand sectors including in the utilities, not for profit and healthcare/medical sectors.

Our service provider, Searson Buck, continues to work through registrations already received from both displaced individuals and hiring businesses as fast as possible.

Individuals who want help back in to work are encouraged to apply through skills.tas.gov.au and businesses with roles to fill should contact www.searsonbuck.com.au.

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