FW launches new intake to help NSW women find work and thrive

A second round of NSW-based applications is now open for FW’s groundbreaking job readiness program Jobs Academy. Thanks to funding from the NSW Government, hundreds of women across the state who are looking to re-enter the workforce can access this valuable support. 

Jobs Academy is a free, fully virtual program that equips women with the essential skills, networks and confidence required to thrive in an evolving job market. The program works directly with employers who are looking to fill critical skills and labour shortages and connects them with job seekers.

Helen McCabe, co-founder of Jobs Academy, said that, “Jobs Academy works because FW recognises women as experts in their own lives – and with their input – we’re providing the right balance of education, empowerment and connection to achieve real results”.

The NSW Government is particularly focused on supporting women who face intersecting barriers to securing employment and achieving career progression, including:

•   Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women
•   Women from culturally diverse backgrounds
•   Women with disability
•   Women living in regional, rural and remote areas

“Jobs Academy is helping to unlock the full potential of NSW’s skilled workforce, boosting women’s participation and securing their economic futures,” NSW Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison said.

Suzanne Gearing, a proud Butchalla and Gubbi Gubbi woman, is a previous program participant. Despite having a law degree and several years of public sector experience, Gearing says she struggled to return to work after a series of career and personal setbacks. 

She applied for jobs she was overqualified for but struggled in the interviews because she lacked confidence. “I just sat there. I thought I can’t keep going like this, but I don’t know what the answer is,” she said. 

“I could not have done it without [Jobs Academy’s] help. They were the ones who got me to that point where I could get back to the workforce,” Gearing said.

Another successful program participant is Willhameena Power, based in Charlestown NSW. She joined the free, online program to redefine her skills and overcome imposter syndrome.

“[FW Jobs Academy] really reaffirms for people that what they have is valuable because somebody else appreciates it… It gave me the option of seeing how relevant my skills still were, giving me contacts and opportunities to learn new things,” Power said.

This is the second of two Jobs Academy intakes supported by a $5.2 million grant from the NSW government. Nearly 75 percent of participants in the first intake are now actively looking for work or applying for further study, with 85 percent reporting they now feel well equipped to search for work.

Applications are now open. To apply or learn more about the year-long program, visit the Jobs Academy website: www.jobsacademy.futurewomen.com