Minister launches MEGT program for survivors of domestic violence

26 August, 2020

Empowering Career Options

Ja Turnbull, David Coltman from TAFE SA, Minister David Pisoni, Hilary Ashworth from TAFE SA and Chris Dale

“MEGT is committed to giving all Australians equal access to employment opportunities. Providing an opportunity to enter or re-enter the workforce helps rebuild confidence, and also gives employers access to job-ready applicants”.;

South Australia’s Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni MP, officially launched MEGT’s Empowering Career Options program in Adelaide on Friday, August 21.

The program helps survivors of domestic violence undertake a nationally recognised Certificate III in Business Administration, with no out of pocket expenses, and with support from DV health professionals.

Course participants also have an opportunity to gain work experience in their chosen field.

The Adelaide program, which takes place over 14 weeks, follows the successful implementation of a similar initiative in Queensland, in which 26 of the 29 participants gained ongoing employment.

It’s funded by the South Australian government under the Skilling Australians Fund. MEGT CEO Bridie Gildea says it can be a challenge for survivors of domestic violence to find work or change jobs quickly after separating from a violent partner.

“Training and employment can change lives, especially in difficult circumstances like these”, she said.