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Regional Development $750,000 investment expands employment and education support for 120 Latrobe Valley young people through 2028

The Victorian government is investing a further $750,000 in the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Program, supporting 120 young people with employment, education, training and independence opportunities through 2028.

By news@gippsland - 18th September 2026 - Back to News

We're continuing to support young people in Gippsland to overcome barriers to employment and education. It's through a further $750,000 investment in the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Program, which helps people aged 16 to 25 build confidence and independence through education, employment and training opportunities.

Ladder Step Up participant Jordan (R) went on to commence an apprenticeship with Dyers Distribution and became a fully qualified diesel mechanic

Ladder Step Up participant Jordan (R) went on to commence an apprenticeship with Dyers Distribution and became a fully qualified diesel mechanic

Youth employment support

The program also helps young people connect with the community and develop independent living skills. At least 120 young people in the Latrobe Valley will be supported through to 2028 thanks to the latest investment. 'This funding is helping us ensure young people in Gippsland have the opportunity to build a positive future and, importantly, to remain connected to, and contributing to, their local communities,' said The Ladder Foundation CEO Chris Wilbourn.

Since 2017, more than 400 young people have graduated from the program, gaining the skills, confidence and connections needed to thrive. Graduates have gone on to gain jobs in:

  • Retail
  • Hospitality
  • Community sector
  • Private businesses
  • Royal Australian Navy

Importantly, many of these young people have secured employment opportunities within Gippsland.

Youth development funding

The six-week course involves group and individual development sessions, community projects including volunteer activities with Morwell Neighbourhood House and other work experiences. An additional 12 months of one-on-one coaching is provided to ensure young people are guided beyond the program.

This funding builds on the Victorian government’s $2 billion investment into the Latrobe Valley’s economic transition - providing support for businesses, industry, communities and major infrastructure projects. It's part of our work to make Gippsland an even better place to live, work, stay, experience, invest and study.

Pictures from Regional Development Victoria website.


Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com



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