Blue Mountains News

The report, which is funded under the Morrison Government’s Building Better Regions Fund – Community Stream, was launched at the weekend by the Blue Mountains Economics Enterprise(BMEE) alongside the report’s author, Blue Mountains local Francesca Stiodi.

Speaking at the launch event, Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the report offered a valuable insight into the experiences of young job seekers.

“As the report acknowledges, there are unique challenges and opportunities for local young people after their high school years,” Senator Payne said.

“Our Government is already delivering job-creating infrastructure through the Western Sydney City Deal and investing in grassroots infrastructure for young people, like the Springwood Library, through the Western Parkland City Liveability Program.

“It is important that governments, employers, educators, Council and community organisations work together to help young people land on their feet, and this report, which surveyed over 300 locals, is another positive step in that direction.”

Bernie Fehon OAM, Chief Executive of the Blue Mountains Economic Enterprise, said he was pleased to formally deliver the findings of the report.

“Education is one of our strategic pillars at BMEE, but this research shows us that there is a lot more to supporting young people going from school to the workforce than simply providing classrooms at TAFE or university,” Mr Fehon said.

“There is no doubt that this research gives us a really good basis to inform our strategy for education and young people.”