Women in the Dubbo electorate will be able to apply for a grant of up to $5,000 through the NSW Government’s new $10 million Return to Work program, as part of the 2020-21 NSW Budget.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the grants can be used for a wide range of needs to help women return to the workforce.
“There are so many costs involved in starting up again, so it is great that women looking to return to work will be able to use these grants towards things like training and education, textbooks or stationery,” Mr Saunders said.
“We are looking to empower as many women as possible to be able to get back into paid employment.”
The grants program will provide women with financial assistance and targeted support including mentoring, advice and training to help them return to the workforce.
“These grants will help women whose employment has been affected by COVID-19 to overcome some of the obstacles in the way of returning to the workforce,” Mr Saunders said.
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the grants would be particularly valuable for women with young families.
“The money can be used for childcare, including before and after school care and transport, which will really help mothers overcome some of the biggest barriers to getting back into work.”
Any NSW resident who has been out of the workforce for at least a month and is intending to return to work within six months of receiving a Return to Work Grant is eligible to apply.
To register your interest, visit: www.service.nsw.gov.au/register-interest-return-work-program.