December 21st, 2025Breaking the cycle of disadvantage and getting back into work

The state government is helping more Victorians break the cycle of disadvantage and get back into work or training.

Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney recently visited the Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association in Braybrook and Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services in Melton to announce a $48 million investment to extend the innovative Reconnect program until 2029.

Reconnect is designed for people who face complex barriers to education and employment, including young people impacted by the justice system, young people in insecure housing, early school leavers and people experiencing long-term unemployment.

The program offers tailored, one-on-one support services such as counselling, mentoring, housing support, health and wellbeing services, education opportunities, career guidance and employability skills.

Since the program began in 2016, Reconnect has provided life-changing support to more than 15,000 people, with many transitioning into further study, completing pre-accredited and accredited training, and achieving sustainable employment.

The Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association offers pre-accredited and vocational training such as English language skills, digital skills and courses in childcare and aged care. From 2021 to 2024 they delivered Reconnect services to 200 people, with 93 per cent engaging in training.

Djerriwarrh Employment and Education Services provided Reconnect services to more than 300 people from 2021 to 2024, many of whom are asylum seekers. Through the program, almost 86 per cent engaged in training, developing critical English language, numeracy and digital skills.

To learn more about the Reconnect program, visit www.vic.gov.au/reconnect-program