Remote Australia Employment Services (RAES) community projects are underway in more than 60 remote communities across Australia, the federal government says.
Providing job seekers with work experience, training and pathways into employment, about 25 per cent of RAES provider funding will be invested in establishing locally designed community projects, with initiatives intended to support job seekers into paid work with local businesses and enterprises.
Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said the projects would give remote communities greater opportunities to develop local skills and employment pathways.
"We know how important a job is, not only for an individual, but for their family and their community," she said.
"By supporting locally led projects and creating pathways into jobs and enterprise, we are helping build stronger communities and stronger local economies."
The projects are a key feature of the RAES, allowing communities to help design initiatives that reflect local priorities and support long-term economic participation.
They could include construction training to develop carpentry skills, small cafes providing hospitality and food preparation training, or initiatives aimed at building the local aged care workforce, they added in a statement.
Previous job trials have provided more than 18,000 remote job seekers with access to work experience, mentoring and training incentives, while 3,000 people secured job placements, the government said.
The program is also intended to support pathways into jobs created through the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program.
In the Groote Archipelago in the Northern Territory, RAES provider Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island Enterprises Aboriginal Corporation (GEBIE) is delivering its Next Gen Program, which includes cultural, vocational and skills development activities to support pathways into employment or further education.
Whilst in Port Hedland, RAES provider Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation is delivering pre-employment programs that include tailored work plans, practical training, workplace experience and mentoring.
Special Envoy for Remote Communities Marion Scrymgour said the projects offered an alternative to traditional government service delivery by giving communities a greater role in decision-making.
"Most importantly, they empower local people to build their skills, experience and confidence and join in delivery of these services through work experience and employment," Ms Scrymgour said.
"Community projects are making a real difference in the lives of people in remote communities. They create purpose, community connection and meaningful employment for people on the ground where it has the greatest impact."
