Media release (Victoria):
Centrelink urges young Shepparton locals to go green
Monday, 22 November 2010
Shepparton Centrelink is urging young people in the local area to consider joining the National Green Jobs Corps program to gain training and help protect the environment.
Shepparton Centrelink Manager, Mark Georgiou, said there are still places available in the Shepparton National Green Jobs Corps program.
“The program really is a great way to put yourself into something positive, acting locally for the good of the community,” said Mark.
“National Green Jobs Corps workers will be at Shepparton Customer Service Centre on Thursday, 25 November from 10 am to 3 pm to answer questions about the program.”
Mark said you may be eligible to join the National Green Jobs Corp program and have that counted as part of activity requirements for your payment if you are aged between 17 and 24 years and receiving Centrelink payments such as:
- Newstart Allowance
- Youth Allowance (excluding students)
- Parenting Payment (and not working more than 15 hours per week)
- Disability Support Pension (and willing to work 15 hours or more per week).
“You may also be able to participate in the program if you are aged between 17 and 20, not receiving income support payments, not working more than 15 hours per week and not in full-time education,” Mark said.
“Participants may also be eligible to receive a National Green Jobs Corps Supplement of $41.60 per fortnight.
“Centrelink, Job Services Australia providers and Disability Employment Service providers are able to refer job seekers to the National Green Jobs Corps program – we can even refer you on the day if you decide you would like to participate in one of the programs.”
Mark said projects run for 26 weeks with participants spending an average 25 hours per week doing hands-on work experience and accredited training.
“Projects are mostly team-based activities, developed in conjunction with local communities and groups to ensure local needs are met,” said Mark.
“All participants will be given the support needed to achieve a qualification tailored to their own needs and interests.
“I urge anyone interested in the Green Jobs Corps program to come to Shepparton Centrelink on Thursday for more information.”
Shepparton National Green Jobs Corps projects include:
- Bush regeneration
- Wildlife habitat protection
- Flora, fauna and land surveys and audits
- Community consultation and environmental surveys
- Developing community information and education products.
For more information visit Shepparton Customer Service Centre, 298 Maude Street, Shepparton, or call 13 1764 or visit Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.