Newcastle Liberals Promise Structured Work Experience Program at Council

The Newcastle Liberals have announced their intention to establish a structured work experience program within the Newcastle City Council, should they be elected on September 14. The initiative aims to provide local youth with valuable hands-on experience across various professions employed by the Council.

Liberal Lord Mayoral Candidate and Ward Four Councillor, Callum Pull, highlighted the growing demand from residents for such opportunities. “Soon after my election to Council, a local father approached me, inquiring about work experience placements for his daughter within the Council,” Cr Pull explained. “After discussing the matter with Council staff, it became apparent that current work experience offerings are only available on an ad-hoc basis.”

Cr Pull stressed the potential benefits of a more structured approach, given the diversity of roles within the Council. “Our workforce includes engineers, town planners, mechanics, and waste services operators. This variety provides an excellent environment for young people to gain valuable experience,” he said.

He further emphasized the importance of work experience in helping young people develop practical skills and potentially secure future employment. “Work experience can open many doors. Even if someone doesn’t have all the qualifications, a positive attitude and dedication can lead to a job offer,” Cr Pull noted.

Cr Pull expressed his belief that the Council has a responsibility to offer such opportunities. “As a significant local employer with the necessary facilities, it is essential that we support our young people in this way. I believe our proposal will receive strong backing from the Newcastle community.”

Ward Two Liberal Candidate, Councillor Jenny Barrie, echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the lack of a formal program results in missed opportunities. “There are many talented young people who look elsewhere because the Council doesn’t offer structured work experience. This means we lose out on their potential,” Cr Barrie said.

She also highlighted the importance of work experience in helping young people explore different career paths. “Whether someone is interested in becoming a mechanic or an engineer, work experience offers a glimpse into the profession and a chance to demonstrate their abilities,” she added.

Ward One Liberal Candidate, Ms Rochelle Manning, expressed her disappointment at the earlier rejection of a motion to create a permanent work experience pathway. “It was disheartening to see that the Council wasn’t willing to commit to making this program a reality. People would be surprised to learn that such a program isn’t already in place. There is a clear demand for it, and I’m eager to be part of the Liberal team that will push for its implementation in the next term,” Ms Manning said.

The proposed work experience program is expected to be a key focus of the Newcastle Liberals’ campaign as they seek to provide more opportunities for the city’s youth.