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Byron Shire
April 27, 2024

Delivering employment pathways for diverse women

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Local organisations in the Lismore electorate can now apply for funding for programs that empower women from diverse backgrounds to thrive in the workforce.

The NSW Government’s Return to Work Pathways Program has launched a new round of applications with grants between $100,000 and $250,000 available for organisations to provide training, mentoring and pathways to employment for diverse women.

Janelle Saffin. Photo Tree Faerie.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the Return to Work Pathways Program was designed to help women from diverse backgrounds overcome barriers to employment.

‘I want everyone in my community to enjoy the same opportunities to succeed in their career,’ she said.

‘This program has a proven track record of helping women to overcome barriers and gain a sense of achievement in their chosen work. I encourage local organisations with ideas to help women succeed, to apply for this funding.’

Serious support

Since its inception in 2023, the Return to Work Pathways Program has funded 13 successful projects and is supporting more than 1,000 women with their employment goals.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the NSW Government was committed to fostering economic opportunity and boosting female participation in the workforce.

NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison. Photo supplied.

‘The Return to Work Pathways program focuses on initiatives that support women who are experiencing persistent barriers to employment,’ she said.

‘Grants awarded through this program have helped women access sustainable employment opportunities through coaching and training, mentorships or local opportunities.

‘Creating pathways to employment means women can have financial security and face life’s challenges with confidence,’ she said.

The Return to Work Pathways Program will focus on supporting women and girls:

  • From Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
  • Living in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW.
  • Of diverse sexualities and genders, including those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, queer and/or asexual.
  • Who are living with disability.
  • Who are living with mental illness.
  • Who are in contact with the criminal justice system.
  • Who are veterans.

Return to Work Pathways Program grant applications are now open and close Monday 11 March 2024. For more information on the grant program, eligibility information and how to apply, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/return-to-work-pathways-program.


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2 COMMENTS

  1. So! What this means is it is just another sexist measure to support any woman.
    All women have ‘diverse ‘ backgrounds so the only people who are unsupported are men.
    Cheers, G”)

    • No Ken. Everyone is equal to White Men. More equal, in fact. They just need a bunch of preferential treatment and benefits cause…equality. Do you know the story of Harrison Bergeron? It’s like that.

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