The Allan Labor Government is continuing its support for LGBTIQA+ communities, helping jobseekers access safe and inclusive employment services.
Minister for Employment Vicki Ward today commended the success of Project Purple, which will support 100 trans, non-binary and gender-diverse jobseekers access inclusive employment support.
Project Purple has already helped 60 trans and gender-diverse Victorians to become work-ready and find new employment opportunities.
More than 11 per cent of Victorians identify as LGBTIQA+, and they experience higher levels of discrimination than other Victorians, which means they can face barriers to employment.
The Labor Government has invested more than $285,000 into Project Purple to enable not-for-profit organisation Fitted for Work to provide tailored support for LGBTIQA+ people looking for new employment opportunities.
Fitted for Work supports women, non-binary and gender-diverse people to become job-ready and gain secure employment. The free services include career development, job search workshops, one-on-one interview preparation, and a personal outfitting service where stylists help people with work-appropriate clothing.
Ren Ka migrated to Australia 15 years ago, held university qualifications and had a willingness to work, however, as a transgender woman she struggled to find safe and ongoing employment.
Ren recently moved to Melbourne for a fresh start. She reached out to Fitted for Work for support and received suitable work clothing, job interview practice and help to start her new career as a community care worker.
For more information, visit fittedforwork.org.
As stated by Minister for Employment Vicki Ward
"Every Victorian deserves to feel safe and welcome when they go to work. This program is supporting LGBTIQA+ Victorians find confidence, overcome barriers and get the jobs they want."
As stated by Minister for Equality Harriet Shing
"We're proud to support organisations like Fitted for Work that are working to provide LGBTIQA+ people with the dignity and confidence that they deserve, and the employment opportunities they want."
As stated by Fitted for Work Managing Director Donna de Zwart
"Project Purple is more than just a program; it's a lifeline for many. By providing tailored services and fostering an inclusive environment, we are empowering transgender and gender-diverse clients to thrive in their careers and beyond. Thank you to the Victorian Government for their continued support of our holistic, end-to-end services."
As stated by Fitted for Work client Ren Ka
"These programs are not just helpful, they're transformative. Because of programs like Fitted for Work and Project Purple, I have hope."
