Applications are now open for Queensland’s new Women’s Career Grants, a $20 million initiative designed to help women re-enter the workforce by reducing financial barriers such as childcare, training and workwear costs.
The programme provides up to $5,000 in support for eligible women to assist with expenses including recertification, transport to job interviews, tools, technology or relocation costs. To qualify, applicants must be Queensland residents aged over 18 who have been unemployed for at least six months and are ready to return to work.
Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security Fiona Simpson said the grants aim to remove cost barriers that often prevent women from seeking work. “We are delivering more support for women returning to work with new grants to help cover the cost of employment essentials,” she said. “The cost of childcare, technology, training or workwear shouldn’t be employment barriers and the Women’s Career Grants are helping remove them. This is important cost of living relief for women returning to work after children, illness or relationship breakdowns, because Queensland women shouldn’t be locked out of a job because they can’t afford the cost of job-seeking.”
More than 3,300 Queensland women have already registered their interest since the programme’s launch on 12 October. The grants will be delivered in partnership with Future Women, the organisation behind the Jobs Academy training initiative for women seeking employment.
One applicant, Evie, a mother of six who has been out of the workforce for more than 15 years, plans to use the grant to help her return to work as a makeup artist. “Returning to the workforce after being a stay-at-home mum presents many challenges – from finding reliable childcare to feeling out of touch with current industry trends – the transition can be overwhelming,” she said. “This grant would help me regain confidence, sharpen my presentation, and invest in the tools and education needed to successfully re-enter the professional world. With support through the Women’s Career Grants program, I can take meaningful steps toward rebuilding my career and creating a stable future for my family.”
Future Women founder Helen McCabe said she was encouraged by the enthusiasm the programme had generated. “These grants will make a real, tangible difference to the lives of many Queenslanders,” she said. “Future Women is excited to be partnering with the Queensland Government to support women returning to work. This is what we at Future Women do best – we know how to connect women with the support they need to get back to work and thrive.”
Applications for the Women’s Career Grants can be made online at womenscareergrants.com.au.
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