THE state government has given Mornington Peninsula Shire money to hire 41 temporary staff as part of its Working for Victoria campaign.
The new jobs are in volunteering, community houses, business liaison, health and wellbeing, events, seniors’ inclusion, township activation, community engagement, youth employment and creative industries.
They come under a $500 million program which aims to help jobseekers find work and employers find workers.
Economic and social impacts of the pandemic across the peninsula have been severe, with 2205 jobs lost at its peak in August, and pre-existing social and health issues worsening.
The new roles include a creative sustainability officer, health and wellbeing officer, senior inclusions officer and five business liaison officers.
The creative sustainability officer will connect artists to spaces and encourage community participation in events, after-school classes and exhibitions. Professional development workshops will be offered to artists and organisations, as well as one-on-one support to those most in need.
The senior inclusions officer will help organisations, groups and networks engage with older people, including U3As and senior citizens groups. The role will support deliver of the shire’s positive ageing strategy and other initiatives and campaigns.
The five business liaison officers will assist small businesses, contact and assist townships, industry estates and home-based businesses as well as liaise with shire departments to resolve or assist in any business issues.
The mayor, Cr Despi O’Connor said the Working for Victoria staff would help businesses and individuals with their recovery.
“The officers will be out in the field talking to our community letting them know what support is available, and finding out their current needs and the kind of support they will need long-term,” she said.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 11 May 2021
