Not-for-profits have welcomed a $15 million investment into the Asylum Seeker Vet Program. This investment will mean an expansion from 300 to 3,000 places for refugees and asylum seekers who are accessing the program.
Migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia has welcomed the decision by the Victorian Government.
AMES CEO Cath Scarth said that having greater access to training would give many refugees and asylum seekers the opportunity to improve their circumstances.
“This initiative will give many refugees and asylum seekers their first opportunity to study in Australia and the chance to improve their skills and qualifications,” said Scarth.
“For many it will mean ultimately getting their first job in Australia or getting a better job.”
The VET Program offers participant’s professional training through TAFE and other providers, which is of “crucial importance” for refugees and people seeking asylum that wish to seek employment.
The Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA) has also welcomed the announcement.
Tim O’Connor, acting CEO of RCOA said, “We are delighted by the announcement of a tenfold increase in training opportunities for refugees and people seeking asylum in the state of Victoria. Such examples show the strong political leadership that is being provided by state governments.”
“The expansion of the VET Program will make a profound difference to thousands of people across Victoria, and we will certainly be encouraging other states to follow suit,” said O’Connor.