Women in the Goulburn electorate will have access to grants of up to $5,000 through the NSW Government’s new $10 million Return to Work program, as part of the 2020-21 NSW Budget.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said that the grants could be used for a wide range of needs to help women in the region return to work.
“There is so much to consider when returning to work and starting up again – and these grants will take the financial stress out of it. The grant can be used towards things like training and education, textbooks or stationery,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the program would provide women with financial assistance and targeted support including mentoring, advice and training to help them return to the workforce.
“These grants will help women whose employment has been affected by COVID-19 to overcome some of the obstacles in returning to the workforce,” Ms Berejiklian said.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said helping more women get back to work will not only provide a financial lifeline for them and their families, it will also boost the economy.
“We know that many part-time or casual positions and female-dominated industries were severely impacted by COVID-19, so we are looking to empower as many women as possible to be able to get back into paid employment,” Mr Perrottet said.
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the grants would be particularly valuable for women with young families.
“The money can be used for childcare, including before and after school care and transport, which will really help mothers overcome some of the biggest barriers to getting back into work.”
Any NSW resident who has been out of the workforce for at least a month and is intending to return to work within six months of receiving a Return to Work Grant is eligible to apply. Successful applicants will be given a Return to Work Coordinator to develop a Return to Work Plan, which will set out the resources that will assist them getting back in the workforce.
To register your interest: http://www.service.nsw.gov.au/register-interest-return-work-program
WENDY TUCKERMAN 