Wednesday, 15 September 2021
Members statements
Learn Local providers
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Commencement
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Announcements
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Papers
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Business of the house
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Production of documents
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Questions without notice and ministers statements
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Constituency questions
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Production of documents
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Business of the house
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Adjournment
Learn Local providers
Mr MELHEM (Western Metropolitan)
Incorporated pursuant to order of Council of 7 September:
As Parliamentary Secretary for Training and Skills, last month I visited three Learn Local providers in my electorate of Western Metropolitan Region—Footscray Community Arts Centre, Australian Croatian Community Services, and Spotswood Community House, which is managed by the team at Williamstown Community and Education Centre.
Footscray Community Arts Centre is an independent creative precinct that offers unique and inclusive performances, workshops, and community events. The centre is highly responsive to the social and cultural needs of Footscray’s marginalised and disadvantaged communities and seeks to improve access and pathways to the arts.
It was great to meet Hayley and Freyja who took part in the Axis workshop program, a hands-on program for women who want to learn more about the arts tech sector. And it was clear that the course had a significant impact on each of their professional and personal journeys.
Australian Croatian Community Services provide an important service to Melbourne’s diverse western suburbs communities. Their community-based ACFE learning opportunities are tailored to meet the individualised needs of adult learners and largely focus on English and digital literacy. The impact of these courses on the quality of life of their participants is immeasurable, highlighted by diligent student Rasema, who I spoke with.
The team at Williamstown Community and Education Centre have serviced their community exceptionally for 47 years through their two houses. Their broad range of ACFE programs reflect the interests and skill development needs of their local community and it was excellent to hear that they are eager to expand their capacity to reach more participants.
This government recognises the phenomenal contribution of Learn Local providers in Victoria, and the challenges they have faced, which is why we remain dedicated to giving them the support they need to prosper.