Local people who have lost work due to the coronavirus pandemic will have the chance to win new jobs in the campaign to help slow the spread of the virus and support the community, under the Andrews Labor Government’s Working for Victoria initiative.

City of Whittlesea is one of the first 28 councils to sign up to the Labor Government’s $500 million program and will offer 264 positions.

More than 2,300 workers across the state will perform roles such as public asset cleaning and maintenance of parks, gardens and sporting fields.

Other roles will involve outreach to older or isolated people, assisting with immunisation programs and coordinating and distributing food and essential supplies.

Council workers who have been stood down may be redeployed into these new roles.

Working for Victoria is matching thousands of Victorians who have lost their job due to the coronavirus crisis with employers that need workers.

More than 2,750 Victorians have started in new roles since the fund launched in April. The initiative also provides people with access to training where required to take on new positions.

More than 130 businesses have signed up to find staff through Working for Victoria and more are encouraged to get on board. For more information and to register for employment, go to vic.gov.au/workingforvictoria.

Quotes attributable to Member for Mill Park, Lily D’Ambrosio

“This support will deliver crucial jobs in Mill Park helping people who have lost their job due to no fault of their own who in turn will help their fellow community members.”

“We’re backing and supporting people when they need it most and fighting for every local job.”