Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Return-to-Work grants are available to assist ACT women who are looking to re-enter the workplace and face additional barriers to employment and training opportunities.
Having taken extended leave while raising her five children, Darah was ready to resume her teaching career.
Equipped with a bachelor’s degree from the Philippines, she was excited to increase her skills, but found the costs prohibitive.
“When you have a big family, budget is always tight, and you can’t always fit in upskilling expenses,” Darah said.
A grant through the ACT Government’s Return-to-Work Program proved helpful.
Through grants of up to $1000, the program helps eligible women prepare for, obtain and maintain employment, ultimately assisting them to achieve increased financial independence.
Darah first heard about the program in her daughter’s school newsletter. Once her application was successful, she felt she was guided and mentored at every step.
She went on to use the grant for driving lessons, renewing her Ps, and booking a language proficiency test.
She now has a conditional offer letter from University of Canberra for a Master’s degree in teaching.
Return-to-Work grants are available to assist ACT women who are looking to re-enter the workplace and face additional barriers to employment and training opportunities.
As well as more formal training and education, grants can be used for related assistance such as childcare while attending interviews, appropriate clothing and even WiFi to apply for jobs.
Return-to-work grants are available to women who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- low income (based on Centrelink means testing)
- have been out of the workforce for six months or more
- not currently employed or not worked for more than four months (full-time or part-time equivalent) during the past 12 months
- not currently on maternity, or paid/unpaid leave
- plan to return to paid work within the next 12 months
- has been a resident of the ACT for more than three months; (note: residency requirements may be waived if applicant has relocated to escape domestic violence)
- has not previously received the ACT Women’s Return to Work Grant.
Darah hasn’t looked back since submitting her application.
“I encourage other women to apply for the grant as it has boosted my confidence, inspired me to have a career despite having a long career break and provided me with a support network,” Darah said.
For more information on the Return-to-Work Program or to apply for a grant, visit the ACT Government website.
Darah encourages other women to apply for a Return-to-Work grant.
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