I rise today to let everybody know what wonderful work yourtown in Capalaba is doing. Training our next generation of workers in vocational skills is hugely important for our state in terms of driving economic growth and improving social outcomes. I know this is a high-priority area for the Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, who is focused on addressing critical skills shortages.
Recently, I was again privileged to be invited by the minister to speak and present certificates on her behalf to graduates at yourtown Capalaba who had successfully completed a certificate II in retail services as part of the Get Set for Work project. I understand that alongside this qualification they received training in barista basics, the responsible service of alcohol and the responsible service of gambling, giving them a wide range of potential options for their careers. I was particularly impressed that the graduation ceremony was organised by the students themselves, helping them gain valuable project management, budgeting and event coordination skills.
The Get Set for Work project at yourtown is a fantastic initiative for 15- to 19-year-olds who are not enrolled at school or who are at risk of disengagement to assist them in gaining nationally recognised qualifications. yourtown not only offers vocational training but assists with all of the things that are needed for new jobs, such as licences, driving lessons, clothes, transport and much more. The support does not just extend to getting a new job either; yourtown offers ongoing support to help with any challenges during the initial months of their employment.
As the member for Capalaba, it is a distinct pleasure to see the achievements of local residents, particularly young people, being recognised. I would like to reiterate my congratulations to the graduates for their commitment to improving their employability. My own apprenticeship was a truly formational period in my life, and it is heartening to see others taking responsibility for their futures and following that same path. I would like to commend the team at yourtown Capalaba and of course the graduating students for their contributions to the local Redlands community. I look forward to working with yourtown and seeing graduates thriving at their new jobs in the local community over the next few years.
