No. 37

$1,000 RETURN TO WORK GRANTS FOR WOMEN

Women from Indigenous, culturally and linguistically diverse or low-income backgrounds will be the focus of the Return to Work grants program announced in today’s ACT Budget. 

The Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher said the initiative would provide up to $1,000 to support women returning to the workforce after having a child. 

“A grant could meet childcare costs when attending interviews and/or attendance costs for short courses, as well as more formal training or education,” Ms Gallagher said. 

“It may also provide support for transport costs or the purchase of equipment, clothing or text books directly related to a woman’s return to work.

“Most importantly, the Return to Work grants will provide support for women from Indigenous, culturally and linguistically diverse or low-income backgrounds who do not meet the criteria for existing programs provided by the Australian Government and the Territory.

“To be eligible a woman residing in the ACT will need to have been caring for dependent children of primary school age or younger for two years or more.

“On average over the next four years over 200 return to work grants will be funded, each year.

“This is a new and exciting program that the Government will be monitoring closely to ensure it is meeting the needs of women and their families.

“In light of the current skills shortage, it is essential that the Government supports women to re-enter the workforce and provides them with the support that they need,” she said.
 
“We believe this program gives eligible women the flexibility to prepare to return to work in a way that suits their lifestyle best,” Ms. Gallagher concluded.