Real Futures, Pathfinders, and ACE Community Colleges are coming together to provide assistance and help to local Aboriginal people to gain employment through the Momentum Program.
The highly acclaimed Momentum Program aims to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals by helping them overcome common barriers to long-term employment. The next Momentum Program sign-up events will take place on October 31, at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre & Museum, 17 Kirkwood Rd, Tweed Heads South, and on November 1, 2023, at the Murwillumbah Community Centre, 37-43 Nullum St, Murwillumbah.
Momentum offers free support to successful applicants, including assistance with obtaining birth certificates, driver’s license acquisition, and finding sustainable employment opportunities.
‘Momentum is a program that brings together essential services to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people obtain their birth certificates, driver’s licenses, and secure meaningful employment opportunities,’ said John Clancy, Momentum Program Manager.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, be aged between 16-55 years, not possess a Birth Certificate or Driver’s License, and currently be unemployed. During the Momentum Program, approved participants will receive guidance in applying for their birth certificate on the same day of enrollment.
Pathfinders Momentum Coordinator, Phillip Bird said, ‘The significance of possessing a birth certificate cannot be understated, as it unlocks essential rights, such as a tax file number, opening a bank account, or obtaining a driver’s license. Without this vital document, individuals face numerous challenges, including difficulties in finding employment.’
To facilitate the process, individuals are advised to bring any available identification documents, such as Medicare Card, Health Care Card, Certificate of Aboriginality, Student ID card, Health Care Card, or Pension Card.
Real Futures is a majority Aboriginal-owned and staffed company, plays a pivotal role in preparing program participants for employment.
‘Momentum is a wonderful program that has the potential to positively change the lives of many people across NSW. The impact we have witnessed through our driving license program alone is remarkable, and the collaboration of these three services holds immense promise,’ explained Natalie Hannah of ACE Community Colleges.
You can find out more about the program and the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre & Museum by calling 07 5524 2109 or heading online to: www.minjungbalmuseum.com.au.
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