07/02/2011 National Green Jobs Corps bridging the gap in Perth's Eastern Region

EMRC and Green Jobs Corps are launching a 26-week environmental training program offering young people, aged 17 to 24, the combination of work experience, skill development and accredited training; to ensure they are ready for employment in emerging green and climate change industries.

National Green Jobs Corps is part of an Australian Government initiative to increase education levels and support unemployed youth, to participate in education and training.

Participants in the National Green Jobs Corps will gain nationally-recognised accredited training, opening pathways to apprenticeships and traineeships; form new friendships whilst working in a team environment; develop leadership skills; get hands-on experience in applying the skills learnt; and gain a sense of satisfaction by contributing to important community projects.

EMRC Chairman, Cr Graham Pittaway OAM said "This is an outstanding opportunity for participants to gain accreditation and skills in conservation and land management, which will increase their employability and opportunities to undertake further training, as well as create a real and alternative learning environment for young people."

The National Green Jobs Corps team will be involved in collecting native seeds, dieback treatment, weed management, bank stabilisation, erosion control, revegetation work and soil condition improvement.

Natural resource management work undertaken by the team will have positive benefits to the environment through improved biodiversity and waterways quality and the prevention and spread of the dieback pathogen.

"The collaborative efforts between National Green Jobs Corps, EMRC, the Shires of Kalamunda and Mundaring, City of Swan and the community, are commendable. It is a fantastic opportunity to improve biodiversity and water quality in the eastern hills" Cr Pittaway said.

The team will be working on sites throughout Perth's Eastern Region, with guidance from EMRC's NRM team, member Council environmental officers and eastern region catchment and friends of groups.

For more information on the National Green Jobs Corps program visit www.bridgingthegap.org.au or contact Linda Colley, Bridging the Gap's Manager Youth and Community, on (08) 9550 1111 or email linda.colley@bridgingthegap.org.au.