Disability Services Minister presents vocational graduate certificates

11/07/01
Disability Services Minister Sheila McHale presented 40 graduates with vocational training certificates in tyre fitting, car detailing, kitchen attending and skills development to gain employment.
The graduation ceremony was conducted on Tuesday evening by Pep Employment, a community-based, not for profit organisation providing employment and training services for people with disabilities.
Ms McHale also presented Pep with a Certificate of Quality Endorsement from the Department of Training in recognition of its recent accreditation as a Quality Endorsed Training Organisation.
The Minister said the graduation ceremony provided an opportunity to publicly acknowledge the achievements of students who had overcome barriers to complete their training courses.
"The Gallop Government is committed to ensuring that access to employment and training is available regardless of gender, socio-economic background, disability, ethnic origin, age or race," she said.
The State Government had allocated $1.3 million to public and private training providers to deliver vocational education and training to people with disabilities relating to areas of high-priority skills shortages.
TAFE colleges received an additional $600,000 to research student needs, purchase equipment, provide career advice and conduct staff training.
The State Government had also developed strategies to support students with disabilities in apprenticeships and traineeships.
"The Government is committed to seeing that all students, like those graduating from Pep, cross the bridge from unemployment to a worthwhile career, either through gaining employment or through further study," Ms McHale said.
Media contact: Priscilla Fouracres on 9213 6900