Shoalhaven Aboriginal & Youth Employment Forum: Getting Results

John Lamont, Deputy Chair Regional Development Australia – Far South Coast recently opened the inaugural Shoalhaven Aboriginal & Youth Employment (SAYE) Forum at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre.

The SAYE Network Initiative aims to encourage collaboration between local businesses, service agencies, schools and the Youth & Aboriginal peoples employment sector to get results for young people.

As a key speaker, John set the scene from the perspective of both the employer and Regional Development Australia – Far South Coast. Key points presented by John included current issues for employers recruiting staff (some of which was feedback from the recent Regional Business Chamber Forum), good models of engaging young people in the work environment and youth initiatives currently in the region.

Working Together To Get Results

Youth and Organisation Panel members shared insightful stories and engaged in table discussions which highlighted two important issues that the SAYE Network Initiative is aiming to address with the help of local businesses. These are how to simplify access to the various employment/community social network sites, and how to develop a strategic approach for the SAYE Network to achieve its goals.

The forum also voted on three themes to work on via dedicated working parties:

1. Employment Opportunities and Barriers To Employment
2. Addressing Lack of Skills and Access To Skills
3. Communication and Disconnect

Nominations have been received for each of the working parties, but anyone interested in joining is invited to express their interest to Lee Byron, Learning & Development Officer, Shoalhaven City Council via email to lee.byron@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au

The next steps will be to form the Working Parties and establish a SAYE Network  Committee. Regional Development Australia – Far South Coast will continue to update our news section with any developments.

John Lamont, Deputy Chair Regional Development Australia – Far South Coast opens the inaugural Shoalhaven Aboriginal & Youth Employment (SAYE) Forum at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre.