Western Pathways

What is Western Pathways?

Western Pathways is new inclusive employment program funded by the State Government that will help young people living in the West get on the path to employment.

Delivered by Jesuit Social Services in partnership with Opendoor, the program provides tailored support for young people. This includes mentoring, coaching, interview and resume preparation and support with work tickets. It facilitates new social connections and participation in meaningful jobs and training.

Through early intervention and prevention, Western Pathways works with young people at risk of offending by supporting positive choices, reducing risk factors associated with antisocial behaviour, and strengthening community safety and wellbeing.

Eligibility

Western Pathways Program supports people experiencing economic and social exclusion, with a strong focus on young people aged 15–24 and their families who are facing unemployment and increasing cost-of-living pressures.

• aged between 15-24 years
• living in Sunshine, St Albans or Melton and surrounding areas in the west of Melbourne
• unemployed or working less than 15 hours per week
• not enrolled or not attending secondary school
• have the right to study and work in Australia.

What do we offer?

The program delivers a participant-centred service from initial engagement through to further education, training or employment.

The inclusive services help people to develop skills, connect with local social supports and participate in meaningful jobs, training and community activities.

The two-year pilot program will focus on people aged 15 to 24, people from multicultural communities and people who are at risk of involvement, or have previously been involved, with the justice system.

Participants can access mentoring and coaching, skills assessments, resume and interview preparation, support with training and tickets, job placement and support, and referrals to health and housing services.

Tailored pathways are developed in partnership with each participant, aligning individual aspirations with workforce and community needs while ensuring access to holistic supports that promote health, mental health, family stability and overall wellbeing.

Engagement is voluntary and does not impact existing welfare or support arrangements. The ultimate objective of Western Pathways is to improve long-term employment and wellbeing outcomes, reduce intergenerational disadvantage, and promote positive community engagement and participation across Melbourne’s west.

Western Pathways is supported by the Victorian Government.

For more information please contact:
Mathew Tanner
P: 0418 746 949
E: Mathew.Tanner@jss.org.au or jsswppsupport@jss.org.au