ACT Government’s Return-to-Work program helps women get back into work

Return-to-work grants are available to assist women from the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) who are looking to re-enter the workplace and face additional barriers to employment and training opportunities.

For Darah, a mother of five who immigrated to Australia from the Philippines, the grant has allowed her to resume a teaching career, and build on her existing Bachelor degree with a Masters in the field, allowing her to increase her skills and get back into the workforce. 

“When you have a big family, budget is always tight, and you can’t always fit in upskilling expenses,” she explained.

Through grants of up to $1,000, the program helps eligible women prepare for, obtain and maintain employment, ultimately assisting them to achieve increased financial independence.

Darah first heard about the program in her daughter’s school newsletter. Once her application was successful, she felt she was guided and mentored at every step, using her grant for driving lessons, renewing her probationary driver’s licence, and booking a language proficiency test.

As well as more formal training and education, grants can be used for related assistance such as childcare while attending interviews, appropriate clothing and even WiFi to apply for jobs.

Return-to-work grants are available to women who meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Low income (based on Centrelink means testing)
• Have been out of the workforce for six months or more
• Not currently employed or not worked for more than four months (full-time or part-time equivalent) during the past 12 months
• Not currently on maternity, or paid/unpaid leave
• Plan to return to paid work within the next 12 months
• Have been a resident of the ACT for more than three months; (note: residency requirements may be waived if applicant has relocated to escape domestic violence)
• Have not previously received the ACT Women’s return-to-work grant.

“I encourage other women to apply for the grant as it has boosted my confidence, inspired me to have a career despite having a long career break and provided me with a support network,” Darah said.

For more information on the Return-to-Work Program or to apply for a grant, visit the Community Services Directorate website.