The Victorian Government has unveiled a $15.2 million initiative aimed at giving more adults access to skills training and work experience, with a strong focus on vulnerable and multicultural communities. The package, launched by Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney during a visit to Geelong-based provider Cultura, is intended to strengthen the bridge between adult learning and employment across the state.
At the heart of the new support is the Learning for Work program, which offers immersive job experiences to those enrolled in pre-accredited courses. Providers in the Learn Local network can apply for grants of up to $2,000 to support job shadowing, employer engagement, and excursions that give learners a clearer view of possible career paths.
“Learn Locals like Cultura are creating real pathways into jobs by giving learners practical, hands-on experience in the workplace and see what’s possible,” Tierney said, adding that the new funding ensures providers have what they need to equip learners with skills and confidence to enter the workforce.
The funding is drawn from Victoria’s allocation under the National Skills Agreement with the Commonwealth and includes:
- $5.9 million to support digital skills training;
- $4.8 million for accredited literacy and numeracy programs;
- $4.5 million for teacher scholarships and professional development in adult education.
Cultura, one of the largest Learn Local providers in Geelong, has been at the forefront of this work. With over 88% of its students having never attended school before, the organisation offers training in English, digital literacy, aged care, and community services—industries that continue to face growing workforce demand. Many of its students come from migrant and refugee backgrounds and benefit from programs tailored to local labour market needs.
Recent initiatives by Cultura have included workplace visits to major employers like Geelong Ports, Cotton On’s distribution centre, and Deakin University, helping adult learners—many of them newly arrived—gain first-hand understanding of how Australian workplaces function.
Cultura CEO Joy Leggo OAM said, “Our current activities focused on work experiences have been well-received by our learners and are an invaluable part of our course offerings.”
The Victorian Government is also promoting a broader awareness campaign for the Learn Local system, which includes more than 200 community education providers across the state. These organisations offer free or low-cost courses in literacy, numeracy, digital fluency and job-readiness skills—accessible within local neighbourhoods.
Ella George, Member for Lara, praised the program’s local impact, stating, “Cultura is changing lives here in Geelong by helping people build the skills and confidence they need to take the next step into work or further study.”
The announcement has been welcomed by the Adult, Community and Further Education (ACFE) Board, which governs the Learn Local network. Board Chair Dr Teresa De Fazio OAM said the funding reflects a continued commitment to equity in education. “We are helping more people in our community gain the foundation skills and confidence they need to succeed—ensuring no-one is left behind.”
Applications for Learning for Work grants will open shortly, and the government hopes to see even more Learn Local providers embed work-based learning into their courses.
To learn more or find a course, Victorians are encouraged to visit learnlocal.org.au.
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