A new partnership between local community organisations has been formed to help tackle employment challenges across West Gippsland.

The partnership, with members including West Gippsland Healthcare Group, ACFE Learn Local, Latrobe Community Health Service, Warragul Community House, Job Find, and Community College Gippsland has been launched to help promote and support entry-level career opportunities at WGHG.
The program is specifically aimed at assisting individuals who face barriers such as low skill levels or low literacy, language or numeracy capabilities.
The collective effort focuses on equipping job-seekers with the necessary tools and training to step into vital roles in the hospital sector. It aims to support the healthcare group fill vacancies in laundry, food services and cleaning roles.
The partnership's goal is to prepare suitable candidates to meet WGHG's workforce needs.
"This collaborative partnership with the health sector is a significant step towards creating accessible, lifelong learning opportunities by improving adult literacy, language, numeracy and digital skills," Gippsland Adult, Community and Further Education senior project officer Claudine Evans said.
ACFE Learn Local has previously delivered a similar program for Central Gippsland and Latrobe Regional Health.
"We are delivering again in 2024 at Latrobe Regional Health and now at Bass Coast Health in Wonthaggi. We are excited to see this program being established in West Gippsland. The impact on the community will be profound as we continue to fund core skills training for Victorians to thrive in today's workforce," she said.
Participants in the six-week program will receive comprehensive training, covering job-specific skills such as financial and digital literacy, interview preparation, mock interviews, and accredited units in workplace health and safety and communication skills. Through these modules, participants will gain essential insights into the health sector - helping them build confidence and readiness to succeed in these roles.
Thanks to ACFE Learn Local and LCHS funding, the course is free for eligible applicants. The initiative is modelled on ACFE Learn Local's prior successes with similar job-ready programs with Central Gippsland Hospital, Bairnsdale Regional Health Services and Latrobe Regional Health, which have been instrumental in helping participants secure employment and transition to certificate-level qualifications.
LCHS strategic partnership co-ordinator Derya Deniz Demirol said the organisation was pleased to be involved in the partnership.
"We are proud to support this course with both funding and our cohort. The LCHS strategic partnership program is dedicated to assisting migrant communities. Through this initiative, we aim to offer a fantastic opportunity for participants to understand work requirements in Australia and gain local experience, fostering community integration for new arrivals."
CCG business development manager Den Lim said the program could be a great first step for someone looking to enter the health workforce.
"For many individuals, the prospect of committing to a lengthy certificate course can feel overwhelming. This partnership program offers a more practical and accessible starting point, ideal for those who are unemployed or underemployed and looking to begin their journey in the hospital sector but are unsure of where to start."
Participants who successfully complete the course and workplace training will be well-positioned to apply for casual roles at WGHG, with opportunities for ongoing permanent employment.
This six-week program is aimed at individuals without prior qualifications who are seeking a career in the hospital sector. The pilot program will begin on October 14.
For more information or to apply, contact CCG 5622 6000 or visit https://ccg.asn.au/course/launch-your-hospital-career.