Released 16/03/2011

Grants revised to help more women re-enter the workforce

The ACT Government has broadened the eligibility criteria for its Women's Return to Work Grants Program to allow more women in the community greater access to financial assistance as they re-enter the workforce.

ACT Minister for Women Burch said she instructed the ACT Office for Women to expand the criteria to include women who have been out of the workforce for an extended period of time due to caring responsibilities. Previously only women with children under the age of 16 had been eligible.

"I have made these changes because I recognise that older women whose children are beyond school age might also face similar challenges when they try to re-enter the workforce as younger mothers," Ms Burch said.

"I understand that in the modern day returning to work after an extended period of time out of employment due to caring responsibilities can be an expensive and difficult and daunting experience, and this grants program ought to be available to women in this situation too."

The Return to Work Grants Program has been running for two years and provides financial support for women on low incomes to assist with costs associated with things such as attending short courses, paying for childcare to attend job interviews, and undertaking further education and formal training. Each grant provides $1,000 to successful applicants.

"These changes to the eligibility criteria will assist with breaking down the barriers some women face as they return to the workplace, and promote the positive advancement of employment opportunities and economic security for older Canberra women."

To find out more information about the updated Women's Return to Work Grants Program and the full eligibility criteria contact the ACT Office for Women at http://www.women.act.gov.au/ or by visiting the ACT Government's Grants Portal at http://www.grants.act.gov.au/. Alternatively, contact the Office for Women on (02) 6205 0515.

Media Contact:Victor Violante victor.violante@act.gov.au
Phone: 6205 0145
Mobile: 0421 846 201