Young people are soon to be further supported through comprehensive work and study programs under the Jobs Innovation Fund launched by the Department of Industry and Employment and Department of Disability and Aging, Creative Industries and Equality Department.

Today headspace, the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, received funding close to $250,000 to support a new and innovative approach to youth employment support and the delivery of employment services for long term unemployed jobseekers facing barriers to employment. 

headspace acting CEO, Julia Smith, said this is a positive partnership for early intervention programs that can engage young people in employment and education while providing clinical support.

“headspace is excited to be partnering with the Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLEN’s) and local headspace centres to ensure young people have an understanding and a plan to reach their work or study goals. It is crucial to fill the gap in early intervention support for those vulnerable young people that are not eligible or failing to effectively engage in the traditional Job active or Disability Employment Services,” Ms Smith said.

“This is an opportunity for headspace Digital Work and Study Servicesand the employment sector to work together for the benefit of all young people.”

The program will engage up to 160 young people over two years – helping them with case management, integrated clinical support with work and study participation, assistance with the self-management of mental health challenges in a work or study environment, and online mock interviews with industry experts.

Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll said the Victorian Government want to make sure every Victorian has access to a good job.

The Jobs Victoria Innovation Fund is making a real difference to the lives of young Victorians experiencing mental illness, providing new ways to engage with those who aren’t accessing support through traditional services.

Ms Smith said headspace would work with LLEN’s and the employment and disabilities department to improve young people’s sense of self-efficacy and independence to manage their work or study barriers going forward.

“One in four, 15-24 year olds are disengaged in employment and education who attend headspace centres,” she said.

This service is unique to young people through the use of technology, the headspace brand, its clinical support and the shared values with the new partnerships formed.