The Victorian Government is helping young and multicultural Victorians overcome barriers to work with 27 new dedicated staff to link up jobseekers with employers.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence today announced $3.9 million to address the increased needs of culturally diverse jobseekers as we recover from the global pandemic.

Eleven organisations will be supported to provide culturally appropriate and individualised support to jobseekers through a network of Community Employment Connectors, who will help jobseekers navigate and connect with employment and training services.

The program has a specific focus on young people aged 16-25 and adults from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who face barriers to securing sustainable employment.

By working through organisations with existing links to community, the program will provide local solutions to the needs of jobseekers and support the economic recovery for all Victorians.

Organisations include MiCare working in partnership with the Wyndham Community and Education Centre, which will connect new and established communities across Western Melbourne to training and work.

The Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District will assist new arrivals and refugees impacted by the pandemic and the end of fruit season.

WEstjustice will provide legal advice and education to help increase job-seekers’ understandings of their employment rights and responsibilities.

Community Employment Connectors will start their work supporting jobseekers from July.

The program will also work in collaboration with the Jobs Victoria Advocates Program to address barriers for jobseekers in local areas.