Job prospects increase considerably for 12 local women

The job prospects of 12 local women has increased considerably following their graduation today from an ACT Government program that focuses on building employment skills in communication, writing, numeracy and ICT.

During a special morning tea ceremony, Minister for Women Joy Burch presented certificates to the 12 Canberra Institute of Technology students for their successful completion of the Learning Options for Women Program.

"The program has been offered at CIT for more than 10 years and is designed for women who are preparing to enter the workforce or even go onto further study," Ms Burch said.

"Many of the women involved in the program have enjoyed great success over the years finding a job not long after completing the course as well as finding the inner confidence to join the workforce - something many never knew they had."

In 2010, work experience was incorporated into the course, giving students the opportunity to put their new skills into practice at a range of workplaces including Daramalan College, the ACT Chamber of Commerce and Industry, National Heart Foundation, and the ACT Legislative Assembly.

"By including the work experience component of the program, the job or further study success rate has increased to around 88 per cent of participants which is a very impressive figure."

Ms Burch said the ACT Government also provided assistance for women on low incomes to increase their financial independence through the ACT Women's Return Work Grants Program. Successful applicants are able to access financial assistance of up to $1000 to support their return to work.

"It is encouraging to see women achieving the goal of entering the paid workforce and increasing their financial independence."

To find out more about the Return to Work Grants Program, log onto http://www.women.act.gov.au/