More than 730 South Australians have applied for a Disability Support Traineeship since the State Government began its latest recruitment drive in March, with applications still open for the popular positions.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said the enthusiastic response is good news for the disability sector, with the traineeship program set to deliver a pipeline of eager, qualified applicants to fill vital frontline jobs across South Australia.
"It's fantastic to see such an overwhelming response from South Australians wishing to work in our disability sector – one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the state," said Minister Lensink.
"Frontline disability support staff play a critical role in supporting people with disability to live full and independent lives and that's why the Marshall Liberal Government committed $9.5 million to this traineeship program to do just this and crucially, to support and drive jobs.
"If you'd like to make a real difference in the lives of others, a traineeship is a life-changing opportunity to start a rewarding career in a growing industry and get paid while you train."
More than 58 high calibre applicants have scored one of the sought-after roles so far, with 41 already graduating from a rigorous introductory training course where they gained skills in infection control, workplace health and safety, and first aid.
The new recruits have now begun practical hands-on work under the guidance of experienced mentors, supporting adults living with diverse and complex disabilities in state-run accommodation services.
After one year, they'll receive a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability).
Among the latest cohort of trainees are three survivors of domestic violence, who were supported to pursue the opportunity through a parallel Skills SA program called Empowering Career Options.
The Marshall Liberal Government launched a recruitment drive in March 2021 to hire the first of 175 disability services trainees in Adelaide, Mount Gambier and Kadina.
More traineeships will be filled this year through group training organisation MEGT, with further recruitment rounds to follow in 2022.
The $9.5 million Marshall Liberal Government initiative is part of a commitment to drive a skills-led economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic through employment and training in sectors with a high demand for skilled workers. For more information or to enquire about the traineeships, visit the MEGT website.
