Supporting at-risk Caboolture students

Young Caboolture students at risk of dropping out of study will be offered individual support to help them complete their education and training, as part of an innovative trial to tackle welfare dependency. 

Up to 400 at-risk students in Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales will be linked with experienced youth caseworkers, who will identify their specific needs, provide individual tailored assistance and connect them with specialist support. 

Minister for Social Services Dan Tehan said the Turnbull Government was providing $1.75 million to Mission Australia to run the 15-month trial as part of its $96.1 million Try, Test and Learn Fund, that funds innovative projects to reduce welfare dependency. 

“Nearly 40 percent of at-risk students are expected to be receiving income support payments in a decade if nothing is done to address their situation,” Mr Tehan said. “The economy is creating 1,100 jobs a day so we have the best chance in decades to break the cycle of dependency by helping people off welfare and into work.” 

Liberal National Party candidate for Longman Trevor Ruthenberg said education was one of the most effective tools to avoid long-term unemployment and reducing reliance on welfare. 

“The Turnbull Government recognises the importance of encouraging VET students to remain in education, to improve their lives and help reduce their reliance on the welfare system,”
 Mr Ruthenberg said. “The young people of Caboolture that are trying hard and want to get ahead will now get more support through regular access to a caseworker and individual support plans.” 

Mission Australia Regional Leader Adam Sherwood said: “Intervening early with intensive support is key. Achieving a VET qualification can be a ticket to success for just about every young at-risk Australian.” 

Marist180 CEO Chris Gandy said: “Marist180, along with its program partners, looks forward to participating in this trial initiative, which aims to make a difference for disadvantaged students in the Caboolture area.”