We are delighted to announce that the Macquarie Group Foundation has chosen Concern Australia as a grant partner, supporting us to strengthen and expand vocational pathways for young adults in south east and western Melbourne, primarily in the automotive sector.
Over the past eighteen months, we have been undertaking participatory design with young adults in our vocational Hand Brake Turn program. The aim of this has been to develop a pathway so young people can reach their goals of transitioning to real jobs and sustainable employment. Together with pro bono supporters from the automotive industry and our experienced staff, we have planned and piloted new approaches and now this investment from the Macquarie Group Foundation will enable us to scale this.
Recognising that many people around the world face systemic barriers to employment, the Macquarie Group Foundation’s global grantmaking focuses on breaking down these barriers and building effective pathways to economic security. In Australia, they support organisations helping young people to participate in jobs that prepare them for a better future. You can read more about all this here:Global grant making focus | Community | Macquarie Group
“Concern’s work with both employers seeking entry-level hires and young people looking to access quality jobs align really well with our grantmaking focus,” said Anna Le Masurier, regional ANZ director of the Macquarie Group Foundation. “We’re looking forward to partnering with Concern over the coming years and understanding what opportunities are available within the automotive sector for the cohort they support.”
Concern Australia CEO Judith Atkinson said, “We recognise that young adults in our vocational programs have many gifts and abilities – and with the right support and opportunities they overcome barriers and realise their potential. At the same time, many employers tell us that they want to employ young people, but appreciate support for both them and the young people as they build skills and grow into their role. We are grateful for this grant partnership with the MGF as it will enable us to support both young people and employers and is a fantastic investment into young people’s futures.”
If you would like to know more about this work or how you can be involved, please contact us info@concernaustralia.org.au
