$700,000 boost supports Job Ready Program

Published on 16 June 2026

Fraser Coast Regional Council has secured just over $700,000 in Australian Government funding to continue delivering its Jobs Ready Program for another 12 months, through to June 2027.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the investment would enable the program to continue delivering its core Jobs Ready, Work Ready and business initiatives, supporting both job seekers and local businesses across the region.

“Over the next 12 months, the program will deliver eight Jobs Ready programs and four Work Ready programs, while also providing targeted support to help businesses grow and improve workforce retention through the Business Managers Program,” he said.

“The Jobs Ready Program focuses on assisting people into meaningful employment, building skills aligned with industry needs, and supporting businesses with leadership, psychosocial, and retention strategies.

“Interested participants are encouraged to attend an information session to learn more about the program. Places are limited to 15 participants per course.

“Information sessions will be held on 21 July in Hervey Bay and 25 August in Maryborough.

“Over the past four years, the program has supported more than 600 participants, helping build confidence, strengthen community connections, and create pathways into employment.

“The program would continue supporting key community groups, including women returning to the workforce, people living with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and migrants.”

Cr Seymour said the Business Managers Program will again be offered over the next twelve months to assist business owners recruit and retain staff.

“Over the last 12 months this program delivered eight sessions targeting areas including leadership development, mental health first aid, workforce planning, human resource support, as well as improving psychosocial outcomes to support recruitment and retention,” he said.

“Council is proud to continue delivering impactful workforce development initiatives that strengthen the local economy and support a more inclusive and job-ready community.

The Jobs Ready Program is run by the Fraser Coast Regional Council and funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.

To learn more about the Jobs Ready Program or register your interest, visit: https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/Jobs-Ready-Program