Communities and Justice

$2.7 million to support women to enter workforce

Monday, 22 May 2023

More than $2.7 million will be provided to fund 13 projects across the state, supporting women to gain employment and carve out meaningful careers, as part of the Return to Work Pathways Program.

The Return to Work Pathways Program will support more than 1,000 women, over the next two years, to become job-ready and to secure sustainable employment.

Speaking at Two Good Co., Minister for Women Jodie Harrison congratulated the recipients and celebrated their projects, which support the NSW Government’s commitment to enhance women’s economic opportunity and advancement.

“Increasing women’s workforce participation is a cornerstone to achieving gender equality and economic security,” Ms Harrison said.

“Women face common and persistent employment barriers, and for some communities, there are additional complexities unique to their needs, life stages and circumstances.”

“I am thrilled to be supporting projects that deliver community-led, wraparound solutions to the women who will benefit most.”

Two Good Co. has been successful in receiving support to deliver an employment pathways program called ‘WORK WORK’ which provides meaningful employment in its kitchen to women experiencing homelessness or domestic and family violence.

Participants will be supported by a social worker, dedicated coach and through training to attain job-readiness.

Rob Caslick, Founder and CEO of Two Good Co. said, "We are excited to partner with the new Minister for Women, the Hon Jodie Harrison, to change the course for women who are rebuilding their lives after domestic and family violence.”

“Through this significant funding, we can deliver comprehensive wrap-around support at critical times, empowering women to lead independent and empowered lives through meaningful employment opportunities.”

Successful recipients include:

  • Dignity Ltd: Reducing the barriers for women experiencing homelessness, providing stable housing, an employment opportunity, education and wrap-around support.
  • Angus Knight Foundation: Connecting with Aboriginal women and girls to re-engage with the workforce and aspire to leadership in a culturally-safe place.
  • Older Women's Network NSW: Supporting older women with one-on-one mentoring and small group sessions to build skills and confidence to gain employment and remain in the workforce.

For more information, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/return-to-work-pathways-program

Last updated:

22 May 2023