The Victorian Government is helping to keep supermarket shelves stocked by linking thousands of jobseekers with food suppliers to reduce critical workforce shortages.

Jobs Victoria is working with major supermarkets including Coles, Woolworths and Aldi as well as wholesaler Metcash, to fill staff shortages with people looking to find work. The program started earlier this month and has already had an overwhelming response, with more than 2,000 people expressing interest in the jobs.

The roles available include pick-packers to assemble online orders, night-fillers to re-stock shelves, cashiers, delivery drivers and forklift operators.

Roles are available for anyone looking for work, especially those whose employment has been heavily affected by the pandemic. Employers will provide any training needed including induction and OH&S.

Jobs Victoria is streamlining the hiring process by undertaking initial screening support to get people on the job as soon as possible.

The Government will also begin distributing 25,000 rapid antigen tests, on a cost recovery basis, to critical utilities and food supply chain services including meat and poultry suppliers.

The $250 million Jobs Victoria Fund is supporting businesses with wage subsidies and large-scale employment programs.

Other Jobs Victoria services include a 600-person-strong force of advocates, mentors and career counsellors to help people in their job hunt.

Jobseekers across Victoria are encouraged to sign up to the Jobs Victoria Online Hub to express interest in these vital roles by visiting jobs.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews

“We want to keep food on the supermarket shelves and Victorians in jobs – and this program does both.”

“This rapid response to workforce issues along the supply chain will help minimise disruptions to the food and essentials Victorians rely on, which is critical as we navigate Omicron.”